AZA SAFE

What is AZA SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction)?

SAFE is a framework that:

Protects threatened animals.
Builds on established recovery plans and history of commitment.
Prioritizes collaboration among AZA member institutions.
Implements strategic conservation and stakeholder engagement activities.
Measures and reports conservation progress.

SAFE Species are at risk of extinction and need our help. AZA member institutions are working together alongside their partners to help save these animals.

There are currently 26 species that the AZA SAFE program is working towards saving from extinction.

You can find the full list of animals on the AZA website: https://www.aza.org/safe-species

Current AZA SAFE Species at Potter Park Zoo

Black Rhinoceros

Did you know some species exist today because of the efforts of zoos and aquariums?

With the “Saving Animals From Extinction” program, AZA-accredited facilities are working with conservation partners to take a leadership role in saving animals from extinction. With scientific expertise, animals and more access to the public than other conservation organizations, AZA-accredited facilities are working towards saving 10 species who are threatened by extinction.

In 2015, the AZA-accredited zoo and aquarium community identified SAFE Signature Species on which to focus planning and conservation action. Since that time, experts from the zoological community, non-profit conservation organizations, and government agencies have gathered for strategic meetings to identify current population threats and the actions needed to address them. These plans include 36 critically important conservation projects (with more to come) that will help save these species for extinction. Some are already underway in the field!