The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo continues a long tradition of being held to the highest standards of zoos and aquariums worldwide, with a reaffirmation of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation.
The AZA’s independent accreditation committee conferred a continuance of the zoo’s accreditation, which it has held since 1978, during the AZA’s annual conference held last week in Calgary.
“We are honoured to receive AZA accreditation, a testament to the hard work, expertise, and passion of our entire team,” said Jamie Dorgan, Interim President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo.
“This recognition underscores our deep commitment to enhancing the lives of the animals in our care while providing safe, educational experiences for visitors, and inspiring our community to join us in protecting wildlife and wild places.”
As part of the accreditation process, independent investigators examine a zoo’s practices, including animal care, conservation activities, environmental stewardship, staff training, and safety.
The accreditation process occurs every five years.
“Congratulations to the Wilder Institute and Calgary Zoo for meeting our rigorous standards and achieving Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation,” said president and chief executive officer at AZA, Dan Ashe.
“Earning accreditation is a mark of excellence and a testament to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of animal care and conservation. Your dedication not only enhances the lives of the animals you care for but also sets a precedent for excellence in the zoological community.”
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is just one of seven zoos and aquariums accredited by the AZA in Canada, including the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg, the Toronto Zoo, and the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre.
The zoo is also a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Calgary hosted the AZA annual conference for the first time in Canada in more than 40 years from Sept. 14 through 19.
