AZA Grants Accreditation to the Birmingham Zoo

The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) announced yesterday that the Birmingham Zoo was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.

To be accredited, the Birmingham Zoo underwent a thorough investigation to ensure it has and will continue to meet the ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be accredited members of the Association.

The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied.

“By meeting high Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards once again, the Birmingham Zoo has demonstrated it is in the top tier of Zoo’s within North America and around the world,” said Dr. William Foster, Birmingham Zoo President and CEO. “On behalf of the staff and Board of Directors, I invite the community to experience your Birmingham Zoo and see why it is such an important staple of the Birmingham Community. We will continue to work to meet and exceed the ever rising standards of the AZA, and are excited as we close in on the $18 million goal of the Renew the Zoo Capital Campaign.”

For the press release, click here.