Smithsonian National Zoo in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
From Collecting to Breeding
National Zoo Animal Care
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, February 17, 2025
1. From Collecting to Breeding Marker
Before the 1970s, many animals came to zoos from the wild through expeditions and dealers. Today, thanks to reproductive advances and a matured conservation ethic, the Zoo acquires most animals by breeding and exchange programs with other zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
The Zoo coordinates breeding exchanges with other accredited AZA zoos under conservation science programs like Species Survival Plans.
"Based upon recommendations made by scientists, the Zoo will seek out animals that can sustain a healthy population of a certain species."
Mandy Murphy, Assistant Registrar
Erected by Smithsonian National Zoological Park.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Parks & Recreational Areas • Science & Medicine.
Location. 38° 55.909′ N, 77° 3.152′ W. Marker is in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia. It is in Smithsonian National Zoo. It is on Olmsted Walk east of Connecticut Avenue Northwest, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in the Washington Metropolitan Area. It is also in the American Northeast, in the Upper South, in the Mid-Atlantic, in the Tidewater, and in the Chesapeake Bay Region. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: The Scoop on Poop (here, next to this marker); Bison and the Land (a few steps from this marker); And Then There Were (Almost) None (within shouting distance of this marker); Are They Bison or Buffalo? (within shouting distance of this marker); Meet Our Bison (within shouting distance of this marker); Bison and the National Zoo (within shouting distance of this marker); Feeding Times at the Zoo (within shouting distance of this marker); Ostrich (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northwest Washington.
Another marker is no longer nearby.
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, February 17, 2025
2. From Collecting to Breeding Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 17, 2025. It was originally submitted on December 10, 2024, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 134 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 17, 2025, by J. Makali Bruton of Washington, District of Columbia.
