Denver Zoo's Conservation Efforts Span the Globe

The zoo's mission goes beyond what visitors see, with a focus on protecting species worldwide.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:08pm

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A vibrant, abstract painting featuring sweeping geometric shapes and organic botanical forms in earthy tones of green, brown, and blue, conceptually representing the interconnected ecosystems and conservation efforts of the Denver Zoo.The Denver Zoo's global conservation work connects scientific research to real-world action, protecting wildlife and their habitats around the world.Denver Today

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is dedicated to conservation efforts that extend far beyond the zoo's campus. From studying animal health to breeding endangered species for release, the organization is working to protect wildlife and their natural habitats around the world.

Why it matters

As a major attraction in Denver, the zoo has a unique platform to educate visitors about conservation and inspire action. Its work in the field, connecting scientific research to real-world impact, is crucial for safeguarding threatened species and ecosystems.

The details

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance operates a new field conservation strategy that links its on-site expertise to global conservation efforts. This includes studying the health of animals like the boreal toad, a Colorado native facing population declines, and breeding them in a controlled environment for release back into the wild. The zoo also has specialized teams working directly in ecosystems around the world to protect wildlife in their natural habitats.

  • The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance recently rolled out its new field conservation strategy.
  • Experts at the zoo are currently studying the reproduction of boreal toads, a Colorado native species facing population declines.

The players

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

A conservation organization that operates the Denver Zoo, with a mission to protect wildlife and their habitats around the world.

Jimmy Johnson

The Senior Director of Wildland Health and Conservation at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance.

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What they’re saying

“We're a conservation organization with a front door. Guests can come in and see animals from around the world, and really shrink the world with a visit.”

— Jimmy Johnson, Senior Director of Wildland Health and Conservation

“Every animal here represents a landscape that needs attention and conservation to ensure that we have wild places for future generations.”

— Jimmy Johnson, Senior Director of Wildland Health and Conservation

What’s next

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance plans to continue expanding its field conservation efforts, working to protect more species and ecosystems around the world.

The takeaway

The Denver Zoo is leveraging its platform as a major attraction to drive meaningful conservation impact, both on its campus and in the field. By connecting scientific research to real-world action, the organization is playing a crucial role in safeguarding threatened wildlife and their habitats for future generations.