Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia

Happy World Wildlife Day! The 2025 theme is “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet,” underscoring the critical role of funding in preserving our planet’s biodiversity. At ZAA, our Species Survival Officers (SSO) provide essential coordination and support to nine Recovery Teams, ensuring boots-on-the-ground conservation efforts remain the main focus. Recently, our SSOs have been enhancing their skills through the IUCN SSC Facilitating Species Conservation Planning Workshops and assisting in-person recovery team meetings and species monitoring efforts. The Australian Government’s generous funding made this crucial work possible, demonstrating how strategic investment in conservation benefits wildlife and the planet. Picture Credits: Rick Stevens, Taronga Zoo

Australia is home to breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife and stunning coastlines, but pollution and improper waste disposal are putting our ecosystems at risk. Every year, millions of volunteers come together on Clean up Australia Day to remove litter from beaches, parks and neighbourhoods. If you would like to join or register a clean up event near you, please visit https://buff.ly/30IGzAQ and help make a bigger impact.

The National Zoo & Aquarium recently welcomed a newborn! A Black and White Colobus monkey named ‘Amara’ was born on Friday, 24th January 2025, marking a special moment for the zoo’s colobus family. Amara is the second of her species to be born at Jamala Wildlife Lodge and has already captured the hearts of staff and guests alike. Keep an eye out for her fluffy white coat if you are staying at the lodge.

As the resumed session of the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is taking place in Rome from 25-27 February 2025, let's revisit the discussions from CBD COP 16 in Cali, Colombia. In collaboration with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums , the Association Française des Parcs Zoologiques - AFdPZ, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, and Species360, WAZA hosted an engaging event at the IUCN Pavilion, highlighting the role zoos, aquariums, and botanic gardens play in meeting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework targets. The event ‘Achieving the Targets: The Role of Zoos, Aquariums, and Botanic Gardens for Conservation’ highlighted ideas and strategies for advancing conservation efforts, with presentation from the co-hosts and representatives from the IUCN Species Survival Commission, Botanic Gardens Conservation International, Fundación Zoológica de Cali, Reverse the Red, and Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Watch the full video ⤵️ https://lnkd.in/dC_vBKvf

Plains-wanderers have been detected in Melbourne’s west for the first time in over 30 years with the help of Artificial Intelligence. Zoos Victoria deployed 35 audio recorders across nine properties, collecting thousands of hours of recordings. AI analysis identified the critically endangered birds’ distinctive “oom” or “boom” calls at two sites, which were then confirmed by bird experts. Zoos Victoria will continue to work with landowners and managers to protect these elusive birds and their habitats. Photo credits: Jo Howell, Melbourne Zoo

Territory Wildlife Park has introduced new electric trains! Replacing the diesel models that have been in use since 1989, these trains mark a major step in reducing the park’s emissions while providing a quieter, more comfortable and more enjoyable experience for guests. The trains have a capacity of 74 seats and feature a low-to-the-ground design for accessibility, safety lock doors and rain curtains for the wet season.

This month, Hunter Valley Wildlife Park is celebrating Healthcare Worker Appreciation Month and giving back to the medical community! As a token of appreciation for their hard work, commitment and dedication, Hunter Valley is providing free entry to all healthcare workers this month, including doctors, nurses, paramedics and veterinarians. To learn more, visit their website:

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival kicks off today, running from 14 February to 2 March 2025. This year’s theme, “Free to be,” celebrates the unique individuality and collective identity of the LGBTQIA+ community. Today's events include the Progress Pride Flag Raising at Sydney Town Hall and First Nations First Light, a heartfelt festival welcome, at Bondi Beach. Join the celebrations and learn more here: https://buff.ly/40OyxFO

This is for you if you're a tourism operator or distributor in captive care, wildlife, or farm/domestic experiences! Tourism Australia & Destination NSW is hosting a free webinar exploring the latest global research on consumer perceptions of responsible animal tourism and how this will help promote experiences in the future. The session will include: Key insights from Tourism Australia's Consumer Demand Project research Introduction to draft guidelines for promoting animal tourism experiences Opportunity for Industry feedback - help shape the final guidelines for 2025. Join on Monday, 17 February 2025, at 2.00-3.00pm (AEDT). Register here: https://buff.ly/4gK56ut

Today, on International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we’re recognising and celebrating the brilliant women in our team and across the ZAA membership who are pushing the boundaries of science. From research to animal care, education to innovation, your dedication and expertise are shaping a better future for wildlife, communities and women. Thank you for your passion, knowledge, and commitment to a better future! PC: Taronga Conservation Society