Conservation Efforts

Current Conservation Initiatives

Hellbender Conservation Program

The Chattanooga Zoo, in partnership with Lee University, is involved in important field research to survey wild populations of Hellbenders, the largest salamander species in the United States. The Zoo is also working to establish a successful breeding program for these rapidly disappearing animals. Hellbenders have never been successfully bred in captivity, and the Chattanooga Zoo has initiated a groundbreaking program to help save these amazing creatures.

In March 2021, the Chattanooga Zoo opened its Hiwassee Hellbender Research and Education Facility. This facility allows for guests to view this species in an intimate setting, view and learn about our conservation efforts of hellbenders from our zookeepers, and provide need classroom space for all the zoo's educational programs.

The Chattanooga Zoo is grateful for partnering with the following on this amazing project: Lee University, TWRA, Tennessee American Water Company, and the U.S. Forest Service.

Click here to watch a short video covering our May 2024 hellbender release, including underwater footage of hellbenders in the wild!

Species Survival Plan

The Species Survival Plan (SSP) is a population management and conservation program for selected endangered species in accredited zoos and aquariums across the United States. The Chattanooga Zoo currently participates in 46 separate SSP programs representing the following species

SAFE: Saving Animal From Extinction

Through AZA SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction, for the first time, the entire AZA-accredited zoo and aquarium community will focus on conservation science, our wildlife experts and our 180 million visitors on saving species in the wild.

SAFE, AZA and its members will convene scientists and stakeholders to identify the threats, develop action plans, raise new resources and engage the public. AZA SAFE harnesses the collective power of all AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums and invites you to join the effort.

American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK)

The American Association of Zoo Keepers is a membership association for animal care professionals to exchange information and network with one another to advance excellence in the animal keeping profession. The TN Valley AAZK Chapter was officially formed on March 26, 2024, and includes professionals from the Chattanooga Zoo who work to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and protecting our natural resources.

Conservation Committee

Conservation Committee is a group of Chattanooga Zoo employees who go above and beyond to contribute to local conservation efforts, raise awareness about important initiatives, and fundraise for organizations across the globe who are working to save endangered species and their environments. The Conservation Committee also hosts regular educational seminars which you can read about here.