LATEST STORIES
Historic Hatching: Northern Shoveler Ducklings
For the first time since 1908, northern shoveler ducklings have hatched at the Bird House!
Meet Our Rare Whooping Crane Chick
On June 16, keepers welcomed a new addition to our Front Royal, Virginia, campus — a whooping crane chick, or "colt," the fourth of its kind to have hatched in our care.
The Hidden Architecture Behind the Bird House's Garden
Zoo teams transformed the yards outside the Bird House into a thriving, wildflower-filled garden. Find out how they did it.
How Do Snakes Move Without Legs?
Snake species have adapted to climb trees, leap across hot sand, and even swim through water — all without arms or legs. How do they do it?
With 'Little Critters', Kids Can Play Hands-On With Nature
At the Zoo's Little Critters: Nature Play area, young children and their caregivers can have fun with free, nature-based play activities.
Study: When Prairie Dogs Call, Birds Are Eavesdropping
Some birds listen in on prairie dog alarm calls to learn when predators are close, according to a new study from our grassland science team.
What Sounds Do Sea Lions Make?
Sea lions are noisy—but how many sounds can they make? Quench your curiosity in this virtual keeper talk with American Trail keeper Sydney Lenz!
Six Canvasback Babies Hatch at Bird House
The tiny ducklings are currently living behind the scenes at the Bird House.
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.