Conservation: Saving Wildlife and Habitats Worldwide
From the Zoo in Washington, D.C., to our research campus in Front Royal, Virginia — and field sites across the globe — the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) leads international efforts to save wildlife species from extinction, conserve ecosystems, and train the next generation of conservation scientists and practitioners.
We Save Species and Habitats
Saving Asian Elephants ›
Smithsonian scientists are advancing elephant care and reproduction at the Zoo while working with partners to protect wild populations in Asia.
Saving Giant Pandas ›
Our researchers are refining techniques to help giant pandas thrive in human care. Their studies also guide habitat restoration in China.
Saving Amphibians ›
In Panama, the Smithsonian operates a conservation center to restore wild amphibian populations while safeguarding them from a deadly disease.
Saving Migratory Birds ›
From Arctic tundras to tropical forests, migratory birds are tightly linked to Earth's ecosystems. Smithsonian researchers are working across hemispheres to raise awareness and protect critical habitats.
Research Centers and Global Programs
Our conservation work extends across five specialized science centers and four international programs, linking Smithsonian researchers with partners worldwide to protect biodiversity.
Latest in Conservation News
Smithsonian Zoo Director Shares Untold Stories of Giant Pandas ›
Brandie Smith's new book, set to debut Nov. 10, recounts surprising and little-known stories about the Zoo’s pandas and the people who care for them.
Zoo Breaks Ground on Arabian Leopard Exhibit ›
The Smithsonian and the Royal Commission for AlUla kicked off construction on a new exhibit slated to open winter 2029.
Happy 5th Birthday, Qing Bao ›
To celebrate giant panda Qing Bao's birthday, keepers went "far out" and created a 1970s-themed party full of bright colors and iconic pop culture slogans.
See These Five New Animals at Your Fall Zoo Visit ›
From a spunky new sloth to a dazzling electric eel, get ready to meet the newest residents making themselves at home.
Happy 50th Zooniversary to the Zoo’s Aldabra Giant Tortoises ›
There are plenty of objects and artifacts at the Smithsonian that are old. But at the National Zoo, there's not much older than Rulon and Chyna.
8 Reasons Why Zoo Staff Think You'll Love Chacoan Peccaries ›
Two animal care experts share why this new species might become your next obsession.
Linh Mai’s Most Memorable Moments ›
Seven months ago, the world fell in love with a little Asian elephant named Linh Mai. As she turns 7 months old, we're taking a look back at her most memorable moments.
Meet the Retirees Turning Their Farms Into Wildlife Corridors ›
As habitat fragmentation threatens Virginia's wildlife, two retired neighbors are turning their farms into biodiversity havens backed by Smithsonian science.
Women in Conservation
Women have been at the forefront of the field of conservation biology at NZCBI for decades. Find out how women have driven discovery and innovation as part of the mission to help protect the world's wildlife.
About SCBI
Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Front Royal, Virginia, the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) is a global leader in conservation, from animal reintroductions to genetic and and reproductive science.