Sacramento Zoological Society

Programs: Animal care - the sacramento zoo is proud to have an outstanding collection of animals to educate and inspire our community. The zoo is home to 580 animals representing 128 species. Of that number, 76 species are in danger of going extinct (listed as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable). Of the species housed at the zoo, 56 are managed cooperatively as part of the zoo's participation in programs of the association of zoos and aquariums. New animal faces this year include infants from numerous species born at the zoo- wolf's guenon, mongoose lemur, red river hogs, burrowing owl chicks, crested guinea fowl, thick-billed parrots, western pond turtles and a masai giraffe calf. Staff happily greeted each new arrival and visitors were overjoyed observing the youngsters with their parents. The zoo was also pleased to welcome two beautiful eastern bongo antelope. The sacramento zoo veterinary department provides lifelong compassionate care to our animals. Veterinarian and registered veterinary technicians partner with the keepers and animal care supervisors to ensure that every animal at the zoo is provided with excellent health care. We conduct routine checkups that include comprehensive physical, dental and ophthalmologic (eye) exams, echocardiographic exam, radiographs and routine lab work. As animals age, we manage any chronic health problems such as arthritis with a variety of methods such as modifying exhibits to promote mobility, nutritional supplements, and analgesic medications when needed. The zoo's partnership with the uc davis school of veterinary medicine brings world-renowned specialists with a wealth of knowledge to the zoo's dr. Murray e. Fowler veterinary hospital.

membership and visitor services - a treasured sacramento amenity, over a half million people flock to the zoo every year. In 2016, 532,322 visitors spent time with family and friends connecting with wildlife and nature on the zoo's tree-lined campus. An additional 24,828 individuals attended on-site special events. Guest loved the introduction of new events like star wars day and a revitalized boo at the zoo. Other special events including wine & brew at the zoo, ice cream safari, and wild affair were remained popular. The bravest zoo visitors were able to experience the exciting kilimanjaro climb, our new rock climbing wall. The less adventurous were able to enjoy our conservation carousel, our zoo train, and our giraffe feeding encounter.

education and sustainability - the sacramento zoo has an extensive selection of educational experiences for children and adults. As an educational institution, the sacramento zoo follows the california state board of education science content standards through a variety of programs. Each year, children from a 24-county region visit the zoo on organized school field trips. In many instances, a visit to the zoo is the only opportunity a child may have to see a snow leopard or sumatran orangutan. In 2016, the sacramento zoo contributed almost $150,000 to over 40 wildlife conservation efforts locally and globally. A variety of programs received financial and in-kind support for activities that included monitoring species and their habitats, aiding in medical care for injured animals and working with communities to protect native species. Quarters for conservation wishing wells give zoo visitors the opportunity to vote for featured programs. This year highlighted borneo small wild cat, greater sandhill crane, and southern african vulture conservation groups. Quarters for conservation is a great example of the sacramento community working hand in hand with the zoo to make a global impact. With an eye to increasing the zoo's sustainable practices, "green team" staff worked to reduce trash and divert food waste out of the landfill. With our partner atlas disposal and their refuel program, stations were set up to sort trash, recycling and food waste, diverting thousands of pounds of food waste and compost from the landfill every month.