Smithsonian National Zoo in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Rebuilding in the Wild
Breeding Programs
Habitat loss and competition with livestock caused drastic declines in Pzrewalski's horses. Declared extinct in the wild in the 1960s, zoo breeding programs rebuilt populations from 14 individuals.
Successful breeding programs at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) help maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population. In July 2013, SCBI celebrated a breakthrough with the birth of a Przewalski's horse via artificial insemination.
High-Tech Tracking
Przewalski's horses are being reintroduced to protected areas in their native range. SCBI scientists monitor the horses' movements using camera traps and satellite tracking collars. The information gathered helps us better understand threats to the horses' long-term survival. The goal is to support and expand self-sustaining herds in the wild.
Erected by Smithsonian Institution.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Science & Medicine. A significant historical year for this entry is 1960.
Location. This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby. It was located near 38° 55.849′ N, 77° 2.965′ W. Marker was
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. A different marker also named Rebuilding in the Wild (a few steps from this marker); A Trail Transformed (within shouting distance of this marker); Bald Eagle (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); A Capital Bird (about 400 feet away); Smithsonian's National Zoo (about 500 feet away); Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (about 500 feet away); a different marker also named Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (about 500 feet away); The Nut Seekers (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northwest Washington.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. This marker has been replaced by the linked marker.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 17, 2017, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 134 times since then and 4 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 17, 2017, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
