What are the AZA standards?
What are the AZA standards?
AZA standards are performance-based to allow them to be applied to a variety of different situations and cases. AZA is continuously raising its standards as science continues to learn more and more about the species in our care. Accreditation is rescinded if AZA standards are not maintained.
What is an AZA accreditation?
AZA is the independent accrediting organization for the best zoos and the best aquariums in America and the world, assuring the public that when they visit an AZA-accredited facility, it meets the highest standards for animal care and welfare.
Does AZA comply with and enforce wildlife laws?
1.1. 1. The institution must comply with all relevant local, state/provincial, and federal laws and/or regulations, including those specific to wildlife. It is understood that, in some cases, AZA accreditation standards are more stringent than existing laws and/or regulations.
How often do AZA-accredited institutions have to go through the accreditation process?
every five years
AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are constantly evolving and standards are continuously being raised. Each zoo or aquarium must keep up with these changes to remain AZA-accredited. And to prove it, they must go through the entire accreditation process every five years.
What is a primary difference between an AZA-accredited zoo and an AZA certified related facility?
The inspection and review process falls under the authority of the Accreditation Commission, but Related Facilities are not considered accredited. They are referred to as AZA-certified. Like accreditation, certification is required every five years.
Is Zoo Miami AZA-accredited?
Silver Spring, Maryland (April 16, 2020) – The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) has announced that ZOO MIAMI was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. ZOO MIAMI has been an accredited AZA member since 1984.
What is the goal of the AZA?
Mission. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums helps its members and the animals in their care thrive by providing services advancing animal welfare, public engagement and the conservation of wildlife.
How much does AZA accreditation cost?
The AZA is a business – they sell for a fee “accreditation status”. Some of the costs include a $1200 filing fee, a deposit of $1000 towards the inspection expenses, and membership dues up to $8,000.
What is the difference between AZA and Zaa?
In contrast to the AZA’s very meaningful accreditation program, a group called the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) “accredits” facilities that don’t meet the established group’s strict standards. While there are 230 AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, there are as many as 2,000 non-accredited facilities.
Is the Philadelphia Zoo AZA accredited?
Philadelphia Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Accreditation takes place every five years and is required for zoos and aquariums to be members of AZA.
Is SeaWorld AZA certified?
As an AZA-accredited member, SeaWorld will continue to provide state of the art animal care to over 800 animal species.
What Zoos are not AZA-accredited?
The Gorilla Foundation.
What do you need to know about AZA accreditation?
AZA accreditation is the standard that sets our members apart, and we expect AZA-accredited facilities to continue to meet our standards, particularly in animal care & welfare, veterinary care, and safety, even during these challenging times.
How often do zoos have to be accredited by Aza?
AZA member institutions are required to repeat the entire accreditation process every five years to assure that they are upholding the continuously evolving standards, incorporating best modern zoological practices in animal welfare and management, and embracing modern AZA philosophies.
Is the AZA accreditation standard translated into Spanish?
For 2020, the Standards have also been translated into Spanish. Click here for the translated edition! For all other current accreditation materials click here.
Why is animal welfare so important to Aza?
Animal welfare is a top priority for all AZA-accredited facilities. Excellence in animal welfare is the underlying foundation on which all AZA standards and practices are premised and developed. Click here for an explanation of how welfare is woven throughout the AZA Accreditation Standards and Related Policies.