El Paso Zoo Fund

A Fund of

El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens: A Leader in Conservation and Education

The El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, an expansive 35-acre facility, is home to a diverse array of rare and endangered wildlife from North and South America, Asia, and Africa. The Zoo plays a vital role in El Paso's community, enhancing quality of life and driving economic growth while serving as an invaluable educational resource.

Conservation Efforts and Achievements

The Zoo's commitment to conservation is exemplified by its most significant achievement: the successful participation in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Cross Fostering program for Mexican wolves. Five critically endangered Mexican wolf pups born at the Zoo contributed to saving the species in the wild. In 2024 a male Mexican wolf pup born at the El Paso Zoo in 2022 and cross-fostered with a wild wolf pack, has found an uncollared female companion to den with in New Mexico.

Key Conservation Initiatives

• Sponsoring a Chihuahuan Desert Conference in collaboration with regional non-governmental organizations and universities in the U.S. and Mexico.
• Launching the world's first "Adopt an Agave" program to aid in the conservation of endangered Mexican long-nosed bats.
• Acquiring a greater one-horned rhino as a conservation ambassador for rhino conservation efforts in Africa and Asia.
• Supporting The Turner Endangered Species Fund in releasing captive-born Bolson Tortoises in the Chihuahuan Desert grasslands of New Mexico.
• Helping rescue thousands of cold-stunned sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico.
• Supporting the Lion Guardians conservation program in East Africa.
• Supporting the Giraffe Foundation in helping to save giraffes in Africa where the wild population has decreased by 30%.

Expert Care and Education

The El Paso Zoo invest heavily in healthcare and medical treatment for the animals we house. The Zoo's highly skilled staff, including zookeepers, education specialists, and an animal medical team, provides exceptional care for a wide range of animals. From the tiniest invertebrates to delicate birds and animals weighing up to 5,000 pounds, the team tackles daily challenges in animal care, behavior, enrichment, and exhibit development.

The zoo medical team responsibilities range from routine checkups and preventative care to emergency treatment and surgical procedures. Routine physical exams involve blood work assessments, full-body radiographs and a full physical examination including a dental check-up, ophthalmic and otic exam (eyes and ears). Vaccine boosters are also given, if needed.

The zoo education specialists raise awareness about wildlife conservation and inspiring action to protect animals and their habitats. They offer a unique opportunity for people to connect with animals, learn about their biology and behavior, and understand the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Collaboration for a Thriving Ecosystem

The El Paso Zoo collaborates with various partners, including communities, corporations, nonprofits, and governments, all sharing a commitment to safeguard biodiversity and protect animal health. This network of conservation partners works towards creating a world where wildlife, people, and ecosystems thrive together.

As the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens continues to raise the bar in conservation impact, it remains dedicated to celebrating the value of wildlife and natural resources while creating opportunities for people to rediscover their connections to nature.

Your support today ensures a bright tomorrow for your El Paso Zoo.