Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Upholds Prestigious AZA Accreditation for 2025

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has again received accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), maintaining a standard of excellence it has upheld since first being accredited in 1982. AZA accreditation is the gold standard for animal care, welfare, and management, with fewer than 10% of USDA-licensed animal facilities in the United States achieving this designation.

The accreditation process is a rigorous, multi-step evaluation that includes a comprehensive application, multi-day on-site inspection, and in-person hearing before AZA’s Accreditation Commission—an independent group of experts in operations, animal welfare and husbandry, and veterinary medicine. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s reaccreditation affirms its commitment to meeting and exceeding these high standards across all aspects of its operations, from veterinary care and conservation to guest experience and safety.

“AZA accreditation is a thorough process and a true mark of distinction for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo,” said Dr. Christopher Kuhar, Executive Director of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our team to providing the highest standard of animal wellbeing, advancing education, science and conservation, and continually innovating to provide the best outcomes for animals and people.”

Over the past four decades, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has continued to invest in world-class habitats, exciting guest experiences, and programs that positively impact animals and people in northeast Ohio and around the world. Of particular note in this accreditation cycle were the Zoo’s significant achievements in science, significant advancements in husbandry for gorillas and elephants, and growth in both global conservation programs and community engagement in northeast Ohio. Since the Zoo’s last accreditation in 2019, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s gorilla troop and other species have been featured on a global stage through Netflix, showcasing the Zoo’s leadership in animal care and conservation. Building on that momentum, the Zoo has launched “CMZ Live!”, a one-of-a-kind, informational and educational, live broadcast program that offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look from various social media channels. Additionally, the Zoo has celebrated significant births of signature species and invited the public to participate in naming opportunities, strengthening community engagement and support for wildlife conservation. The accreditation process also cited the strong relationship with the Zoo’s non-profit partner, the Cleveland Zoological Society.

The Zoo’s accreditation also underscores its commitment to science-based animal care and husbandry, as well as its contributions to global conservation initiatives. Home to some of the most vulnerable species from around the world, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and its guests play a vital role in securing a future for wildlife.

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