The Hattiesburg Zoo has received accreditation from the Zoological Association of America (ZAA).
According to the ZAA, the Hattiesburg Zoo has specifically proven that it meets the association’s high standard in delivering exemplary animal care and welfare, staff and visitor safety, and facility operations.
Specifically, the zoo meets the following ZAA objectives:
- Professional standards for husbandry and animal care practices
- Accurate animal and medical records
- Appropriate, safe, and quality existence for animals kept in a captive environment
- Safe environment for humans — both staff and visitors
- Enhanced survival of species using appropriate methods
“We have long known that our community sees the improvements that the Hattiesburg Zoo has made over the years,” Hattiesburg Zoo Director of Conservation and Education Jeremy Cumpton said. “From expansions and renovations to cultural changes within our organization, our journey to accreditation has been filled with obstacles and achievements. This accreditation shows us that not only does our community recognize the hard work we have put in but that leaders in our profession do as well.”
Among ZAA benefits, the Hattiesburg Zoo will have access to the association’s veterinary advisory group. In addition, the zoo will participate in ZAA’s animal management programs to aid in the survival of threatened or endangered species.
“Our goal has always been excellence in Animal Care and Welfare and to receive accreditation is an amazing way to recognize that behind-the-scenes hard work,” Hattiesburg Zoo Director of Animal Care Kristen Moore said. “We are proud to be the zoo that Hattiesburg deserves, and are committed to growing our animal population in partnership with ZAA.”
The Hattiesburg Zoo opened up in 1950. Over the last 72 years, the facility has evolved from the original park, which housed a minimal number of animal exhibits, to a facility competing with zoos in other nearby cities such as New Orleans.
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