Oklahoma City Zoo Scientist Honored for Pollinator Conservation

Researcher's work to protect bees, butterflies, and other vital species recognized with national award.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 8:58pm

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An Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden scientist has received a prestigious national award for her research and conservation efforts focused on protecting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other vital species. The award highlights the Oklahoma City Zoo's leadership in pollinator preservation programs.

Why it matters

Pollinators play a critical role in the health of ecosystems and food production, but many pollinator populations are declining due to factors like habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. The Oklahoma City Zoo's work to study and protect pollinators helps raise awareness of this important environmental issue and serves as a model for other zoos and conservation organizations.

The details

Dr. Olivia Renee, the Oklahoma City Zoo's Curator of Invertebrates, was honored with the National Pollinator Conservation Award from the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Her research has focused on studying the impacts of urbanization on pollinator communities and developing innovative habitat restoration programs to support threatened pollinator species in the Oklahoma City region.

  • Dr. Renee received the award at the end of March 2026.
  • The Oklahoma City Zoo has maintained pollinator conservation programs for the past 5 years.

The players

Dr. Olivia Renee

Curator of Invertebrates at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, recognized for her research and conservation work focused on protecting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other vital species.

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

A leading zoo and botanical garden in Oklahoma that has prioritized pollinator conservation through research, habitat restoration, and public education programs.

American Association of Zoos and Aquariums

The national organization that awarded Dr. Renee the National Pollinator Conservation Award for her impactful work at the Oklahoma City Zoo.

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What they’re saying

“Protecting pollinators is one of the most important conservation challenges we face today. I'm honored that our team's work has been recognized, and we'll continue pushing the boundaries of what zoos can do to support these vital species.”

— Dr. Olivia Renee, Curator of Invertebrates

What’s next

The Oklahoma City Zoo plans to expand its pollinator conservation programs in the coming years, including opening a new butterfly house exhibit and launching a citywide initiative to plant more native pollinator-friendly plants.

The takeaway

The Oklahoma City Zoo's leadership in pollinator conservation demonstrates how zoos can play a crucial role in protecting threatened species and educating the public about critical environmental issues facing local ecosystems.