American Humane is excited to announce that Woodland Park Zoo has achieved certification by the global American Humane Conservation program. Woodland Park Zoo passed a rigorous third-party audit to become the tenth Humane Certified™ institution in the United States.
The American Humane Conservation program, which you can read more about here, is the first-ever certification program solely devoted to helping verify the humane treatment of animals living in zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers across the globe. The program enforces rigorous, evidence-based standards of comprehensive animal welfare, developed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee comprised of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, animal behavior, animal ethics, and conservation.
Founded in 1899, Woodland Park Zoo manages the largest live animal collection in Washington state, with 1,000 animals representing more than 300 species, and provides a home for 40 endangered and 17 threatened or vulnerable animal species. Each year, Woodland Park Zoo leads more than 1 million people on a journey that inspires a lifelong love of animals, makes science come alive, and gives people the tools to take conservation action.
“We are thrilled to announce the certification under American Humane Conservation of Woodland Park Zoo, a world-class institution dedicated to the responsible, humane treatment of the remarkable animals in its care,” said American Humane President and CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert. “Woodland Park Zoo’s commitment to meeting the highest standards of humane, verifiable, and transparent animal care is a distinction of which we should all be proud.”
“Strengthening humanity’s bonds with other species and caring for our planet start with the best care for our zoo’s animals. Animal wellness is not only our responsibility—it is our passion,” said Woodland Park Zoo President and CEO Alejandro Grajal, PhD. “We are honored to achieve this seal of approval because we share American Humane’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare as our highest priority.”
