SAN DIEGO (Dec. 13, 2023) – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife recently rescued three orphaned mountain lion cubs. The cubs—approximately 6 weeks old at the time of their rescue—were each found separately following an extensive search over the span of a week. Each cub was treated in the field for dehydration before being taken to Paul Harter Veterinary Medical Center at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Because the young lions were orphaned at an early age, they cannot be safely reintroduced into their native habitat. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife designated the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as a safe haven for the rescued cubs, offering them a second chance and lifelong care.

SAN DIEGO (Dec. 6, 2023) – The Endangered Species Act turns 50 years old this year. A new report released by the Endangered Species Coalition, Ten Stories of Hope: The Endangered Species Act at 50, highlights 10 case studies of conservationists using different strategies to protect and recover imperiled fish, birds, plants and mammals in the United States. Ninety-nine percent of species protected under the Endangered Species Act have been saved from extinction, including the humpback whale, grizzly bear and bald eagle. The Top Ten report features the Stephens’ kangaroo rat and the efforts of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance to help recover the species using conservation translocation.

In the quest to save a true Southwest icon, we've teamed up with the California Mountain Lion Project.

SAN DIEGO (Nov. 9, 2023) – A binational team of scientists, using creativity and innovation, adorned dozens of endangered thick-billed parrots with tiny solar-powered satellite transmitters to track and reveal their winter migratory nesting sites in the remote treetops of the Sierra Madre Occidental ranges. Their research reveals new critical habitat, 80% of which has no formal protection.

Biodiversity banking is a critical component of conservation, and the need for it is more urgent than ever. 

LOS ANGELES, SAN DIEGO, and PORTLAND, Ore. (Oct. 16, 2023) – The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) is sharing early results from the historic vaccine trial for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in California condors (Gymnogyps californianus). As reported by the Service’s Incident Command leading the effort, results from the first test group showed that 60% of the condors produced measurable antibodies that are expected to provide partial protection against mortality from HPAI if the birds are exposed. 

SAN DIEGO (Sept. 28, 2023) – Laughing youngsters and dancing adults joined in the fun this morning at Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Diego, as families took part in a kickoff celebration for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s annual Kids Free month—now in its 38th year. Entertainers from San Diego Zoo’s HalGLOWeen and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Autumn Festival thrilled and enchanted over a 100 youths and their families with dazzling performances and unique activities. Audience members will also be treated to special appearances by Dr. Zoolittle and Safari Parker, and took part in a special story time with author Georgeanne Irvine, who read “Teaching Tornero,” her sixth book in San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Press’ heartwarming Hope & Inspiration Series.

SAN DIEGO (Aug. 10, 2023) – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has announced construction is officially underway on the largest and most transformative project in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s 50-year history. The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley will reimagine the heart of the Safari Park, turning the current elephant environment into a dynamic savanna and a place of exploration. Elephant Valley will give guests of all ages the opportunity to connect with elephants like never before, encouraging greater empathy, understanding, and appreciation of this majestic species—and igniting a passion for wildlife.

Technology takes wing, and is playing a key role in Hawaiian hawk conservation.

We're building alliances to protect the savanna, and all who rely on this delicately balanced ecosystem.