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× The Zoo is open! Entry passes are required for all guests, including infants. All visitors ages 2 and older are required to wear a mask in all indoor spaces at the Zoo, regardless of their vaccination status. Fully vaccinated visitors do not need to wear a mask in outdoor areas.
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Meet the residents of the Zoo
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Founded in 1889, the Smithsonian's National Zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park and is home to 2,700 animals representing more than 390 species.

The Zoo’s commitment to conservation, research, and education also extends to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, located in nearby Front Royal, Virginia. SCBI scientists and animal care experts conduct veterinary and reproductive research to save wildlife and habitats for some of the world’s most endangered animals on the sprawling 3,200-acre campus.

Animal News

Dec. 03, 2021
Small Enrichment, Big Difference: Stories from a Real-Life Zoo Guardian
Dec. 03, 2021
#CheetahCubdate 11: Decoding Cub Chatter and a Clean Bill of Health
Dec. 03, 2021
How Do You Care For Elderly Swamp Sparrows?
More Animal News

Meet the Animals

Today's Programs

We are following the guidance of local health officials and the CDC, and in an effort to reduce close contact among large groups of people, all animal demonstrations will be cancelled until further notice.

Meet the Animals

Luke Lion
From reptiles and amphibians to fish, birds and mammals, meet the animals at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

Veterinary Care

veterinarian examining the eyes of a cheetah cub

Learn how keepers and veterinarians provide the best possible care for the Zoo's animals

Webcams

giant panda cub

The Zoo's animal webcams are some of the most famous on the internet. Tune in to watch the Zoo's giant pandas, elephants, lions and naked mole-rats — live, 24/7!