Behind the Scenes: Care in Colorado
Groucho, Bodhi, Billy, Jake, Duncan, and Baylor are not only a joy to our visitors but also play a crucial role in inspiring conservation efforts for their Endangered species both in zoos and in the wild.
Our boys support vital conservation and research efforts through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) and Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) Asian Elephant program. The goal of the SSP is to create the most genetically diverse assurance populations in human care. The SAFE program aims to enhance and assist conservation efforts within the 13 range countries by engaging communities, supporting the science of managing elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), and developing educational materials.
We also support innovative research right here in Colorado. This 2023 Zoo Tales highlights the groundbreaking studies conducted with our bachelor herd. These research initiatives not only benefit the elephants in our care but also provide valuable insights that aid global conservation efforts.
Global Guardians: Helping Protect Elephants Around the World
Laos, once known as Lan Xang, the Land of a Million Elephants, now faces severe challenges with only about 400 wild elephants remaining due to habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and illegal wildlife trade. The largest group is found in Nakai-Nam Theun National Protected Area, where more data is needed to protect this species and their habitats.
DZCA is proud to partner with Association Anoulak to study the Asian elephant population’s size, genetic diversity, and social dynamics. This research is crucial for informing Laos’ National Elephant Action Plan. We are also collaborating with the Elephant Conservation Center to support the education of a Lao zoological veterinarian and lab technician, providing access to specialized training not currently available in Laos.
In Sumatra, Indonesia, DZCA is working with Forum Konservai Leuser to protect the lowland forests that form the eastern part of the Leuser Ecosystem. Aceh province, at the island, is home to about 42% of the remaining population of Sumatran elephants, a Critically Endangered subspecies of the Asian elephant
Additionally, we are now a Conservation Partner of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Asian Elephant Specialist Group. This global group of experts is dedicated to managing and protecting this species across the continent. Our ongoing research with our bachelor herd is shared with colleagues in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and elephant conservation organizations worldwide.
Join the Cause: How You Can Help
Here are some ways YOU can support these amazing animals:
Shop Sustainably:
Purchase products made with certified sustainable palm oil. Use resources like the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ PalmOil Scan App or organizations like Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and Palm Done Right to find sustainably sourced palm oil.
Support Conservation Efforts:
Visiting Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance and other AZA-accredited zoos helps support elephant conservation efforts. Your visit contributes to our work in Colorado and worldwide, helping to ensure the survival of Asian elephants for future generations.
Meet Our Bachelor Boys:
Attend a daily elephant demonstration at Toyota Elephant Passage to learn more about our elephants and the important role they play in conservation.
From our herd to yours, thank you for supporting Asian elephants and Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance!
Every visit, membership, and donation supports our wildlife conservation efforts locally and globally. Stay updated on our animal care and conservation work by following us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and TikTok.
