Saving Animals From Extinction

An orange Bornean orangutan sits on a branch, showing its broad, gray face.

Protecting Wildlife for the Future

Extinction is forever. Habitat loss, climate change, and illegal hunting are pushing many species in that direction. While the challenges are serious, there is hope. When people work together, species and wildlife can recover.

Zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) play an important role in this work by supporting conservation, research, and education that help protect wildlife.

What is SAFE?

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) created the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program to protect some of the world’s most threatened species. Saving animals from extinction means helping species survive and protecting the habitats they need to live.

Through SAFE, AZA-accredited zoos and partners work together using a shared plan focused on long-term impact. The program supports proven conservation plans, encourages teamwork among zoos and their partners, and backs important conservation projects. Progress is evaluated and tracked carefully to make sure these efforts are truly helping wildlife.

Our Involvement

As an AZA-accredited organization, Brookfield Zoo Chicago works with partners around the world to help protect animals in zoos and in the wild. The Zoo is a place for conservation, learning, and hope for endangered species.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago supports healthy animal populations through conservation programs, research, and breeding efforts. Education is a critical component of this work, helping visitors learn why animals are threatened and what they can do to help protect them.

Why This Matters

Every animal plays an important role in its ecosystem. When a species disappears, it can affect plants, other animals, and people. Protecting endangered species helps keep ecosystems healthy, supports biodiversity, and protects the natural resources we all rely on.

Saving animals from extinction also protects the future. By caring for wildlife today, we make sure future generations can see, enjoy, and learn from animals in the wild.

A honey bee sits on a purple and orange flower.

Meet SAFE Species at Brookfield Zoo Chicago

We’re passionate about protecting at-risk species every day as part of the AZA SAFE program. From caring for animals at the Zoo to advancing research and empowering guests to take action, we believe conservation works best when everyone is involved. We’re proud to support these important SAFE programs.

African Lion

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African Painted Dog

African Painted Dog

American Bison

An American bison looks over its shoulder with bits of straw in its mouth.

Angolan Colobus

An Angolan colobus sits on a branch, its long, fringed, white fur framing its body.

Blanding's Turtle

A Blanding's turtle swims through leafy freshwater habitat.

Bornean Orangutan

A Bornean orangutan sits on a branch, showing its wide face and small eyes.

Leopard Shark

A leopard shark swims towards the camera, showcasing its stripes, spots, and gills.

Mexican Wolf

A Mexican wolf stands staring at the distance with another wolf in the background.

Reticulated Giraffe

A reticulated giraffe eats a mouthful of leaves.

Western Lowland Gorilla

Gorilla 2

Protecting Wildlife Together

Conservation is at the heart of our mission. Explore all of our conservation programs and discover how we’re working to protect wildlife around the world.