Helping Threatened Species

For Animals. Forever.

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Caldwell Zoo is dedicated to helping animals that face serious challenges in the wild. That’s why we offer a safe haven for many threatened or endangered species.

It may come as a surprise that so many of the species on our campus face difficulties in the wild. How do we know? The International Union for Conservation and Nature (IUCN) publishes the Red List of Threatened Species to monitor animal populations all around the globe. Over 16,000 scientists and experts voluntarily participate in IUCN commissions, sharing information on how to protect the natural world. As mankind develops more of the planet, which destroys natural habitats, animal species are being pushed towards extinction. The Red List is a valuable resource that can raise awareness and inspire people to action to protect at-risk animals.

Here at the zoo, the Red List motivates us to play an active role in a variety of conservation efforts, breeding plans and educational programming. If we can increase awareness by connecting you with these magnificent animals, together we can do more to make a difference on their behalf.

Special Species Initiatives

Reticulated Giraffe

In 2020, we were fortunate to welcome another beautiful giraffe baby. Xena June arrived with some drama, though. Watch the video below to see the compelling story of how our staff rose to unexpected challenges after she was born.

African Cheetah

The Caldwell Zoo is a member of the Breeding Centers Coalition (BCC), a consortium of worldwide experts in breeding these highly sensitive animals. BCC helps to maintain healthy genetic diversity of breeding animals. In 2021, with support from our community, we were able to expand our breeding facilities so that we can continue to do more to help this endangered species.

Featured Videos

Here is a list of some of the threatened or endangered species that live here at the Caldwell Zoo.

African Elephant, African Cheetah, Aldabra Giant Tortoise, Attwater Prairie Chicken, Poison Dart Frog, Texas Horned Lizard, African Spurred Tortoise, King Vulture, Hyacinth Macaw, Yellow Headed Amazon, Ring-tailed Lemur, Red Ruffed Lemur, Golden Lion Tamarin, Cotton-top Tamarin, Eastern Black and White Colobus, African Lion, Grevy’s Zebra, Black Rhinoceros, Reticulated Giraffe, Bongo, Yellow-backed Duiker

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