Conservation and research
Zoos are conservation organizations. The Toronto Zoo runs breeding, research and reintroduction programs, funds field work, and uses education to reduce threats to wild species.
Four mechanisms
- Conservation breeding - genetically managed populations under AZA Species Survival Plans (SSP) create insurance populations for threatened species.
- Reintroduction - captive-bred animals reinforce or re-establish wild populations.
- Research - veterinary, nutrition and reproductive science transfers directly to the care of wild populations.
- Funding and education - admissions and donations finance field projects, and exhibits turn visitors into supporters.
What the zoo actually does
- Adopt-A-Pond Wetland Conservation Programme - a long-running program protecting Ontario's wetlands and their turtle and frog species, including head-starting of the endangered Blanding's turtle.
- Conservation breeding and reintroduction - breeding and release programs for Canadian native species; see the official Reintroduction Program page.
- Species Survival Plans - AZA-coordinated breeding programs for threatened species, including gorillas, orangutans, giraffes and African penguins.
- Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy - the zoo's dedicated fundraising partner, channelling donations into conservation projects.
Verify the conservation status of any species via the IUCN Red List.
How you can help
- Visit the zoo - admission revenue supports operations and conservation work (tickets only on the official website; we sell nothing).
- Donate or "adopt an animal" through official zoo channels only.
- Support habitat protection - start with Rouge National Urban Park next door.
- Make wildlife-friendly everyday choices and support reputable conservation organizations.
No donations here. This website accepts no donations and sells nothing. Give only through official channels such as the official Toronto Zoo website.