The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is pleased to welcome a new Institution Member to the global zoo and aquarium community- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

Established in 1914, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and takes care of over 1700 amphibians from 22 species, nearly 350 birds across 69 species, over 370 fishes across 12 species and over 270 mammals from 51species. Their Zoo is home to more than 2,000 exotic animals and 1,000 plant species and serves as the largest botanical garden in Northeast Florida. 

Dr Martín Zordan, WAZA CEO said, ‘WAZA is thrilled that Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has rejoined as our Institution member. Their commitment to education, conservation, and research is in keeping with WAZA institutions’ areas of focus and I am confident that our members will have the opportunity to collaborate with Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in these key areas.’

The institution inspires discovery, appreciation, and conservation of wildlife, plants, and the natural world and welcomes more than one million visitors annually. In 2020, they began operating with a mission dedicated to connecting their community with wildlife and wild places.

Dr Jeffery Ettling, President and CEO of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens said, ‘The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is excited to rejoin WAZA and to be a part of the family of like-minded world organisations committed to the highest standards of animal care and wellbeing, environmental education and the conservation of wildlife and wild places.’

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has also been accredited by and is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Visit their website for more details.