OPEN HEARTS
Through the unique opportunity to experience wildlife up close, right in the heart of our urban Mile High City, Denver Zoo opens hearts and minds to the wonders of nature. In order to do this effectively and sustainably, we must strike a delicate balance between leading-edge animal care and a world-class guest experience.
Admittedly, our standards are higher than most. We’re proud to be among just 10% of zoos in the world to meet the exacting criteria for accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. In addition to this achievement, we’re a top-performing Zoo by almost every operational measure—size of animal residency, species diversity, annual attendance, operational excellence, conservation and sustainability.
Our world-class guest experience is made possible by continuous improvements to our animal habitats, animal care, and overall campus.
Top-Notch Animal Care, Made Possible By You:
Animal Habitats
New animal habitats are thoughtfully designed to provide the best possible environment for their residents:
A comfortable and appropriate space
Keeper access and efficiency for care
Flexibility for the use of space
Energy efficiency and water-wise designs
Water and pollinator friendly plantings
Landscape that is safe for animals to contact
Overall animal and guest safety
Animal Care
Our dedicated Animal Care Specialists care deeply about providing an outstanding life and home for the animals in our care:
Custom nutrition plans for each animal
Restaurant grade produce and ingredients sourced from local producers
Board certified veterinarians and animal technicians
Whole life care and wellness
Daily enrichment and socialization to promote natural behaviors
Behavioral and animal husbandry specialists
What Does the Future of our WILD Zoo Look Like?
Into the Great Wild Open represents the largest Denver Zoo investment in new exhibits and infrastructure projects since Toyota Elephant Passage in 2012.
Gratitude to Our Generous Supporters That Help Us Open Hearts to the Community
With a transformational gift to the Sea Lions habitat remodel, the Koelbel Family Foundation found a meaningful way to honor the legacy of Gene N. Koelbel, long time volunteer and Board member at Denver Zoo.
Ariel Steele and Tom Adjutant are the biggest fans of our Asian small-clawed otters. With the birth of two new pups in 2023, they were inspired to sponsor the care of the entire otter family.
As Zoo Pride members, this donor society receives special benefits and opportunities to see more of Denver Zoo and hear directly from Animal Care Specialists. At the $2,500 membership level, you can provide a week of fresh browse for the entire Zoo for nutrition and enrichment.
Make Our Animals’ WILDEST Dreams Come True!
If the animals that call Denver Zoo their home have touched your heart, help us open hearts through enhanced animal habitats, care, programs, and more.