Coming Soon... An Elephant Baby!
One of the Zoo’s Asian elephants is pregnant, and the baby is due soon! Learn how we're preparing to welcome the new calf — and how you can join the fun.
LATEST STORIES
Inside Redd the Orangutan’s Respiratory Care Routine ›
Redd’s daily treatment reveals how human medical technology is commonly adapted by zoos to help orangutans breathe easier.
Our Most Exciting Conservation Stories of 2025 ›
Take a look at some bite-sized stories about our science programs this year.
Our Most Exciting Animal Care Stories of 2025 ›
We’ve gift-wrapped a few short highlights that capture the spirit of the year in animal care.
A First Checkup, Cheetah Style ›
Get an inside look at how our animal care teams conduct a regular checkup on four tiny cheetah cubs.
For Migratory Species, Fences Don’t Make Good Neighbors ›
Fences are creating serious problems for wildebeest herds, says a Smithsonian ecologist studying megafauna migrations in Africa.
How to Keep Classroom Pets Healthy ›
This blog from a Smithsonian intern highlights the joys of classroom pets, and outlines the steps necessary to keep students and animals safe.
How Grasshoppers Beat the Heat ›
On hot days, humans rely on air conditioning, pools and fans to cool us down. Grasshoppers came up with their own clever trick for beating the heat: climbing.
Giant Panda Qing Bao Gets a Checkup ›
Giant panda Qing Bao had a routine checkup Oct. 22. Veterinarians say she is in very good health!
Live Animal Cams
Experience giant pandas, cheetahs, 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.