Membership Why the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Matters
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the world’s most respected zoological institutions, recognized for excellence in animal care, wildlife conservation, education, sustainability, community engagement, and scientific innovation.
Founded in 1875, the Cincinnati Zoo inspires millions of people each year through unforgettable wildlife experiences while advancing critical efforts to save endangered species and protect habitats around the globe. As one of the nation’s leading zoos, the organization combines world-class animal care with groundbreaking conservation programs, environmental leadership, and educational initiatives that help create a future where people and wildlife thrive together.
What Is the Mission of the Cincinnati Zoo?
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s mission is:
Creating Adventure. Conveying Knowledge. Conserving Nature. Serving Community.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s vision is:
Inspiring Everyone with Wildlife Every Day while working toward a world where people and wildlife thrive together.
What Makes the Cincinnati Zoo Unique?
A Global Leader in Wildlife Conservation
The Cincinnati Zoo supports conservation projects locally, nationally, and internationally. Zoo scientists, conservationists, educators, and community partners work together to protect wildlife and habitats while helping communities develop sustainable solutions that benefit both people and nature.
The Zoo is especially recognized for its leadership in:
- Sumatran rhino conservation
- Polar bear conservation
- Imperiled cat conservation
- Plant conservation
- Human-wildlife coexistence initiatives
- Community-based conservation partnerships
- Wildlife reproductive science through the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW)
These efforts extend far beyond Zoo grounds and contribute to wildlife survival worldwide.
Excellence in Animal Care
The Cincinnati Zoo is home to hundreds of animal species and is internationally known for outstanding animal welfare, veterinary care, behavioral enrichment, breeding programs, and habitat design.
The Zoo has gained worldwide recognition for animals including:
- Fiona the hippo
- Fritz the hippo
- Sumatran rhinos
- Asian elephants
- Gorillas
- Penguins
- Red pandas
- Sea otters
- Lions
- Cheetahs
- Manatees
- More!
Every animal experience is designed to inspire curiosity, empathy, and conservation action.
A Leader in Sustainability
Known as the Greenest Zoo in America ®, the Cincinnati Zoo has been a pioneer in sustainable practices for decades.
Major sustainability initiatives include:
- Large-scale solar energy generation
- Community Solar Resiliency Program
- Water conservation programs
- Waste reduction initiatives
- Sustainable landscaping
- Community environmental education
- Renewable energy partnerships
The Zoo’s sustainability work demonstrates how organizations can reduce environmental impact while strengthening communities.
Education That Inspires Conservation
Every year, the Cincinnati Zoo connects students, teachers, families, and lifelong learners with wildlife and nature through:
- School field trips
- Conservation education programs
- Zoo Camps
- Zoo Teens
- Zoo Academy
- Internships
- Conservation fellowships
- Community outreach programs
- Digital learning experiences
These programs help people understand biodiversity, environmental stewardship, and the role everyone can play in protecting wildlife.
How Does the Cincinnati Zoo Help Save Wildlife?
The Cincinnati Zoo believes conservation succeeds when science, innovation, storytelling, and community engagement work together.
The Zoo’s conservation approach focuses on:
- Protecting endangered species
- Preserving habitats
- Supporting local conservation efforts
- Advancing wildlife science
- Promoting coexistence between people and wildlife
- Inspiring conservation action among Zoo visitors and online audiences
By combining research, education, field conservation, and public engagement, the Zoo helps create lasting positive impact for wildlife around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cincinnati Zoo
Yes. The Zoo supports conservation projects worldwide and is a recognized leader in protecting endangered wildlife, conducting scientific research, and helping communities develop coexistence-based conservation solutions.
The Zoo is known for its leadership in conservation, sustainability, animal care, educational programs, and for beloved animals such as Fiona the hippo. It is also recognized for pioneering work in endangered species conservation and wildlife reproductive science.
The Zoo serves as a trusted community resource, educational institution, conservation leader, tourism destination, and economic driver while connecting people with nature and wildlife.
Visitors can experience extraordinary wildlife encounters, learn about conservation, support animal care, participate in educational programs, and become part of efforts to protect wildlife for future generations.
