The role of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums in butterfly conservation

Abstract

Zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) have long engaged in conservation with activities ranging from ex situ propagation of animals for reintroduction, to in situ field conservation, to developing conservation education programs promoting conservation actions linked to wildlife issues, to undertaking important scientific research. Furthermore, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are significant funders of conservation and, with support and engagement by the Association itself, their involvement will continue to grow. Butterflies in North America have been the beneficiaries of these efforts, supported in part by the creation of the Butterfly Conservation Initiative in 2001, a collaboration intended to grow the butterfly conservation community of practice among AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums and partner organizations. Between 2010 and 2013, AZA members spent more than $2 million on butterfly conservation, including major initiatives supporting ten vulnerable species as well as other conservation, education, and research efforts throughout North America. These financial and staff investments shows that AZA-accredited facilities have the experience, expertise, and motivation to make a difference on behalf of butterflies.