Center for Species Survival

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Center for Species Survival

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute's Center for Species Survival (CSS) is a collaborative group of scientists and animal care professionals that conducts basic and applied research, especially in the fields of reproductive and welfare sciences, and animal and biomaterials management, to understand biological mysteries and implement practical solutions to help rare species survive. Since 1983, CSS scientists have pioneered innovative approaches to solve wildlife conservation problems around the world, with the goal of avoiding extinction and creating methods to sustain viable wildlife populations—in zoos and the wild.

Conservation News

Jul. 01, 2022
They’re sweet, outgoing and always in the mood for food. Meet Scarlet, Xena and Taizong, the... read more
Jun. 03, 2022
In March and April, keepers at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal,... read more

Department of Animal Programs

At SCBI headquarters in Front Royal, Virginia, scientists contribute to species survival by managing threatened animal populations.