The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization that accredits zoos and aquariums, like Assiniboine Park Zoo, ensuring they meet high standards for animal care, conservation, education, and safety. AZA-accredited institutions are dedicated to global conservation efforts, working to protect endangered species and their habitats. They focus on two main conservation areas: Field Conservation, which contributes to protecting wildlife and their habitats, and Mission-Focused Research, which improves conservation strategies by studying animals and ecosystems. 

Photo: Chimney Swift family interacting within Assiniboine Park Conservancy's artificial chimney structure.

Assiniboine Park Conservancy: A Leader in Conservation

Assiniboine Park Conservancy (APC) in Winnipeg is a standout example of an accredited modern zoo committed to both Field Conservation and Mission-Focused Research. In addition to offering naturalistic habitats, APC is deeply involved in hands-on conservation efforts to protect wildlife locally and globally. With a department dedicated to Conservation and Research, APC works alongside researchers and conservation organizations to help preserve endangered species and their habitats. APC also supports scientific research on animal behavior, breeding, and species conservation, ensuring that their efforts contribute to broader global conservation goals.

Assiniboine Park Conservancy’s Conservation Strategy 

APC’s Conservation Strategy brings together fieldwork and research to protect biodiversity on both local and global scales. The strategy themes are protecting urban biodiversity, preventing species extinctions, cultivating conservation connections, and understanding the changing Arctic. These efforts combine direct conservation actions with research that helps improve our understanding of species and ecosystems, making conservation strategies more effective for the future. 

Photo: An adult Beluga examines the underwater camera on the M/V Delphi in Churchill, MB.

The Importance of Public Engagement in Modern Zoos 

Modern zoos, particularly those that are AZA-accredited, play a vital role in educating the public about wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. By showcasing the challenges facing endangered species and the efforts being made to protect them, zoos inspire action and encourage learning. APC, like other zoos, offers both in-person and digital experiences to educate and inspire the next generation of environmental advocates. 

Photo: A Poweshiek Skipperling butterfly resting on a flower.

Assiniboine Park Conservancy’s Key Conservation Successes 

1. Preventing Species Extinction: In 2024, APC released over 200 Critically Endangered Poweshiek Skipperling butterflies back into the Manitoba landscape, contributing significantly to the species' recovery. 
2. Protecting Urban Biodiversity: APC facilitated six consecutive years of successful nesting by threatened Chimney Swifts in an experimental chimney, marking the first use of an artificial chimney by Swifts in Manitoba. 
3. Understanding the Changing Arctic: Through the Beluga Bits project, APC partners with others to collect important underwater data, tracking the health and behavior of Beluga whales over time to support their conservation.

By integrating education, conservation, and research, Assiniboine Park Conservancy is helping to shape the future of wildlife preservation while inspiring the public to get involved. Learn how you can support sustainability practices at Assiniboine Park through our recycling programs and more on our website.