Newsroom

General Information

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute leads the Smithsonian's global efforts to save species, better understand ecosystems and train future generations of conservationists. Founded in 1889, the Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex. Its two campuses are home to more than 2,100 animals, including some of the planet’s most critically endangered species.  

This Newsroom contains resources for members of the media, including press releases, media kits, images and downloadable b-roll. If you are a reporter and would like to arrange an interview or get more information on the Zoo’s animals and conservation science research, or request photos or video, please contact the communications team to facilitate your request. For all other inquiries, please use our general contact form. 

Phone: 202-633-3055
Email: ZooSCBICommunications@si.edu

Press Releases

A lantern in the shape of a chameleon extending its tongue.

ZooLights Returns Nov. 22 to Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

October 07, 2024
Photo of a male Kirtland's warbler perched in a pine tree. The warbler is a small yellow bird with gray markings on its face and back.

Drier Winter Habitat Impacts Songbirds’ Ability to Survive Migration

October 04, 2024
Photo of two women and a man standing together smiling. The people are all wearing formal clothing and the man holds a toy kiwi bird in his hands.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute Repatriates Kiwi Feathers to New Zealand

September 30, 2024

Media Requests

If you are a reporter and would like to arrange an interview or get more information on the Zoo’s animals and conservation science research, or request photos or video, please contact the communications team to facilitate your request. For all other inquiries, please use our general contact form.

Want to be added to the Zoo's press release distribution list? Fill out the media contact form with the subject line: "add to distribution list."

Sea lion Ronin behind the scenes at the American Trail exhibit

Giant Panda Program Media Resources

Find comprehensive resources on the Giant Panda program here, including photos, videos, a panda program backgrounder and press releases.

Video B-roll for Media Use

Browse a comprehensive playlist with footage and video clips on the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute's YouTube channel.

Conservation and Science Impact Report

The heart of NZCBI's mission is to help build a more sustainable future for people, for wildlife and for nature. This 2023 report offers a snapshot of that mission in action.

Filming at the Zoo

Requests to film at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute are evaluated an individual basis. 

Parties interested in filming at the Zoo are encouraged to review our filming policies before submitting an application.

Animal News Archive


Two surgeons operate on a cheetah cub, who is mostly covered in a blue protective blanket.

Inside the Zoo: A Rare and Life-Preserving Cheetah Surgery

October 04, 2024
Side view of a huge, scaly fish with silver scales that are pinkish near the tail.

Creature Feature: Meet the 'Freshwater Giant' Arapaima

October 01, 2024