Zoological Association of America

ZAA is a non-profit, membership-based accrediting organization dedicated to responsible wildlife management, conservation, and education. ZAA upholds the highest level of professional standards in animal welfare, safety, and ethics.

2025 ZAA Annual Conference

October 1-4, 2025

San Antonio, TX

Hosted by the San Antonio Zoo

Abstract Submission

Deadline: May 31st, 2025 (11:59pm EDT)

Awards Submission

Deadline: June 30th, 2025 (11:59pm EDT)

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About ZAA

The Zoological Association of America (ZAA) stands as one of the nation's largest nonprofit zoological and wildlife organizations. Over 70 accredited facilities have met ZAA's rigorous animal care, welfare, and enrichment accreditation standards. With more than 950 members, ZAA offers visitors educational, conservation and entertaining experiences. ZAA members care for between 10 to 8,000 animals on properties ranging from 2 to 1,800 acres. ZAA is a genuinely unique, inclusive membership organization comprised of public and private facilities, including wildlife educators, rescues and rehabs, wildlife preserves, aquariums, as well as small and large community zoological and conservation organizations.

WHY ZAA?

950+ Members

70 + Accredited Facilities

15+ million individuals reached through ZAA member organizations each year

8+ million students in education programs each year

$4+ million contributed yearly to conservation efforts worldwide by ZAA and its members

$150+ million combined annual budgets of ZAA organizations which play a significant role in advancing regional economies and encouraging tourism

Get Involved

Become a Member

Join 950+ members and stand beside great companies supporting conservation

Accreditation

Join 70+ accredited facilities providing education, conservation, and recreational experiences to their communities

Professional Development

Magazine

Webinars

Snake envenomation management in zoo and exotic animals

May 21, 2025 6pm ET |
Click Here to Register

Zookeepers: Boots on the Ground Wildlife Conservationists

June 4, 2025 6pm ET |
Click Here to Register

Events

  • 6/17-6/19 - MAZA Conference - Click here

  • 8/23-8/29 - 57th Annual Conference of AAZV - Click here

Job Board

Visit the job board for career opportunities, volunteer openings, paid positions, and internships

To post a position to the Job Board, please email the job description directly to [email protected].

Latest News

A New Approach for an Old Eagle Ambassador

Meet Denali, a 25-year Golden Eagle ambassador getting a second chance through choice-based training. Discover how this new approach is transforming his welfare and engagement. ...more

ZAA Accredited Facility News

May 20, 20251 min read

A New Approach for an Old Eagle Ambassador

ZAA’s New Government Affairs Page

Stay informed with ZAA’s new Government Affairs page -featuring bill descriptions, submitted comments, and advocacy updates on legislation impacting the zoological community. ...more

ZAA News

April 28, 20252 min read

ZAA’s New Government Affairs Page

Donate Today

Interested in Donating to ZAA?

ZAA Members: You can easily donate through your Member Compass!

Non-members: We'd love your support!

Or send a check to:

Zoological Association of America

11654 Plaza America Dr, Suite 309

Reston, VA 20190

Thank you for your generosity!