AAZK is a nonprofit volunteer organization (U.S. 501c3) made up of professional zoo keepers and other interested persons dedicated to professional animal care and conservation.

AAZK’s purpose is to foster a professional attitude in animal keepers and aquarists by encouraging them to become active members of professional teams at today’s zoos and aquariums. AAZK supports the promotion and implementation of zookeeper education and strives to make the general public aware of our concern for all deserving conservation projects and the need for the preservation of our natural resources and the species that depend on those resources.

Serving as a professional organization for zookeepers, AAZK is a valuable resource for dedicated animal care workers. AAZK is dedicated to advancing animal care, promoting public awareness, enhancing professional development and contributing to local and global conservation through fundraising and stewardship. Our goal is to inspire and motivate through our roles as animal caregivers, educators and conservationists. Through workshops, conferences, newsletters, and internet forums, AAZK helps animal care staff stay current in husbandry, training, nutrition, and conservation. Well educated keepers using modern techniques means the animals in their care benefit tremendously.

Reminders Board

2012 AAZK National Conference

2012_conf_logo Syracuse, NY
23-27 September 2012

New Dedicated Issue Available

The new Animal Keepers' Forum issue dedicated to ungulate husbandry is available for purchase in our shop.

Change of Address

If your mailing or email address has changed, please send an updated address here.

Latest News

A Word from Anna Merz

anna3 Take just a minute to read these words from Anna Merz.

April Sale in the AAZK Shop

For the month of April take advantage of the specials in the AAZK shop. The "Eye Movement" long sleeve shirt is now 25% off and is a steal at just $15. Get a free Bio Values CD when you purchase this shirt as well.

GRANTS FOR LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCES IN AVICULTURE: AAZK TRAVEL GRANT

asag-logo-1Guidelines and application process Purpose: The Avian Scientific Advisory Group (ASAG) believes that recruiting and building capacity in the next generation of zoo bird managers is vital to the continuity and survival of zoo avian programs. To this end, ASAG offers small grants to bird read more…