This is the Year of the Tiger, and a ideal time to support the conservation of these endangered animals. With only 3,900 or so tigers left in the wild, efforts continue towards saving them around the world. Sharing conservation awareness is one way we can help these and other endangered species.
The history of the Smithsonian National Zoo reveals how important conservation is to saving life on the verge of extinction. Between 1882 to 1887, William Temple Hornaday was chief taxidermist at the Smithsonian. His trip out to western United States in 1886 was a shock when there were no large herds of bison as he expected. With the bison near extinction, Hornaday set out to save them, and other endangered species.
Today, organizations like the Smithsonian's National Zoo participate in the Species Survival Plan for Sumatran and Amur tigers. And, in 2008, the Smithsonian Institution joined the World Bank Group and the Global Environmental Facility to launch the Global Tiger Initiative, designed to stabilize and restore wild tiger populations to save the species from extinction.
Along with tigers, the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute has many animals to explore. Check with the friendly staff for scheduled activities and exhibits to experience with your group.
Please note that while the Smithsonian's National Zoo is free for walk-in entry, you will need to reserve entry passes and paid parking pass online before visiting.
By Melody Schubert
Plan Your TripView more news on tigers, visiting the zoo by visiting the Smithsonian National Zoo website.
Explore attractions, events, and plan your trip to Washington D.C. with resources at the Destination DC website.
