#captive-breeding

#captive-breeding

Despite half a century of international protection, TRAFFIC's findings showed that tiger trafficking is accelerating and increasingly targeting whole animals, living or dead. Experts say the shift appears linked to captive-breeding operations, but may also reflect tigers being seized shortly after poaching or before being dismembered for their parts. Additionally, it could be driven by a rise in exotic pet ownership or demand for taxidermy, they say.

In recent decades, zoos across the United States have expanded their roles from mere wildlife exhibitors to essential conservation havens with a mission to prevent extinction. Through ingenious breeding programs, innovative habitats, and groundbreaking research, these institutions have played a pivotal role in rescuing several species teetering on the brink of extinction. Here, we explore 13 remarkable U.S. zoos that have significantly contributed to these efforts, underscoring the critical role they play in global conservation initiatives.