Government Shutdown FAQ
How might the government shutdown affect the Zoo? What is the refund policy if the Zoo is closed? Get the answers to those and other questions.
LATEST STORIES
7 Spooktacular Animal Facts for Halloween ›
Read on for some chilling curiosities from the creatures of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Zoo Welcomes Sailfin Lizards ›
A new species just arrived at the Reptile Discovery Center… and visitors can meet a living “dragon” up close!
A Guide to the Orangutans Living at the Zoo ›
Wondering which orangutan you’ll meet on your next visit? Get to know their names and personalities in this guide written by the Primates keeper team.
Virtual Field Trips Bring the Smithsonian to Preschoolers ›
Together with partners, educators at the Zoo and Smithsonian museums are delivering unique learning experiences to early childhood classrooms.
Meet Our Red Panda Cub ›
In this Q&A, keeper Jessica Kordell shares the latest on our red panda cub’s developments.
#DCPandas: Happy 4th Birthday, Qing Bao! ›
Join us in wishing our “4-ever sweet” giant panda Qing Bao a happy 4th birthday!
Canada Lynx Have Arrived at the Zoo ›
Say hello to Jasper, Rocky, and Yukon — three Canada lynx brothers you can now see at the Great Cats exhibit!
Study: Small Herbivores Have a Big Impact on Grassland Health ›
New Smithsonian research indicates prairie dogs and grasshoppers have some of the largest impacts on grassland nutrient cycles.
Live Animal Cams
Experience giant pandas, lions, elephants and naked mole-rats in live camera views from the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Live Bird Friendly® and Support Birds
When you purchase Bird Friendly® certified coffee or cocoa, you preserve critical habitat for birds and wildlife, fight climate change, protect biodiversity, and support farmers committed to farming sustainably.
We Save Species
Our scientists and researchers play a leading role in the Smithsonian’s global efforts to save wildlife species from extinction and train future generations of conservationists.
Explore our conservation programs at the Zoo and our research headquarters in Front Royal, Virginia.
Explore Our Online Gift Shop
Shop for animal-themed gifts, plush toys, books, and apparel inspired by the amazing animals at the Zoo. Proceeds from each sale support the Smithsonian mission.