The National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute leads the Smithsonian's global efforts to save species, better understand ecosystems and train future generations of conservationists. We achieve our mission by using cutting-edge science, sharing knowledge and providing inspirational experiences for our guests. We are unique within the Smithsonian family because we care for some of the rarest wildlife species on the planet.
Under the Smithsonian Campaign for Our Shared Future, the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is raising private support for five priority initiatives: Wild America, Giant Panda Program, Amphibian & Reptile Rescue, Conservation Education and the Movement of Life. We focus on solutions and scale our work by saving species, restoring ecosystems and increasing community involvement in building a sustainable future.
Specific campaign priorities include:
- Increasing science staff positions for the study and revitalization of the Northern Great Plains ecosystem (Montana), including bison, birds, insects and grasslands;
- Inspiring young people and training the next generation of young scientists and conservationists through endowed positions and an interns/fellows fund;
- Continuing our pioneering Giant Panda program for the next 15 years, to include curator and specialist support and conservation initiatives;
- Renovating and re-imagining Zoo animal houses with an emphasis on climate change, adaptation and resilience;
- Supporting core science programs including the Conservation Ecology Center, Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, research on corals and more.