Santa Ana Zoo Celebrates New Accreditation and Exciting Exhibits

The Santa Ana Zoo has successfully regained its accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) after nearly a decade, confirming that the facility meets rigorous standards for animal care, veterinary services, and facility safety. This accreditation places the zoo among over 250 accredited institutions across the United States, including renowned facilities such as the San Diego and Los Angeles zoos.

The zoo’s revitalization is marked by the introduction of new exhibits, notably the River’s Edge, a multi-species habitat set to open in October 2025. This significant upgrade replaces a 25- to 30-year-old exhibit that had suffered from a broken filtration system, limiting animal welfare. According to Ethan Fisher, the zoo’s director, the new habitat is designed with modern zoological practices that prioritize animal choice and comfort, featuring an overhead trail system and heated areas.

The River’s Edge will house a variety of species, including giant South American river otters, howler monkeys, and golden lion tamarins, with nine Mexican spider monkeys forming a core part of the exhibit. These monkeys, many of whom were rescued from illegal wildlife trafficking, reflect the zoo’s commitment to conservation efforts. Fisher emphasized the ongoing problem of trafficking, stating that many young monkeys do not survive the harsh conditions they face prior to rescue.

Interactive educational displays will accompany the new exhibit, offering insights into critical issues such as deforestation and wildlife trafficking. This initiative aims to raise awareness and promote conservation efforts among visitors.

Financial and Structural Improvements

The zoo’s journey back to accreditation has involved substantial financial investment and structural improvements. Following the loss of its AZA accreditation in 2017, the zoo faced significant challenges stemming from the financial crisis of 2008, which resulted in staff reductions and difficulties in funding necessary upgrades. Fisher noted that while animal care staffing was preserved, other areas such as education and administration suffered.

Since 2021, the zoo has received approximately $24 million in funding for various upgrades, including around $8 million from state and private sources. The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo Foundation has also contributed $1.6 million, with additional support coming from the city’s annual budget and youth benefit funds. Fisher remarked, “We have the most staff we’ve ever had and the largest budget we’ve ever had. We’ve completely done a 180 from where we were.”

The AZA accreditation opens new avenues for the zoo, allowing eligibility for special grants and participation in international conservation programs. Future plans include further enhancements to primate exhibits and the construction of a dedicated education facility aimed at expanding community engagement.

As the Santa Ana Zoo prepares for its upcoming exhibit openings and continues its commitment to animal welfare and conservation, it stands as a testament to the resilience of community-supported institutions in preserving wildlife and educating the public.