8 Historic Photos of the Zoo to Celebrate Its 130th Anniversary
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo was created in 1889 and opened its doors in 1891. To celebrate its 130th anniversary, look back at how the Zoo has evolved through the years – from just 15 species on the National Mall to a sprawling Zoo campus in Rock Creek Park and a companion facility in Front Royal, Virginia.
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March 20, 2025
Why I'm Tracking Bison Herds
Smithsonian ecologist Claire Bresnan encourages aspiring scientists to take a chance on themselves, and not succumb to "gloom and doom" in her Focus on the Future feature.
March 07, 2025
Get to Know the Elephants
Want to tell the Asian elephants apart? This introductory guide will help you spot each of the six residents of the herd.
January 24, 2025
Two New Giant Pandas Debut
Giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao made their public debut at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute today.