AAZK is a nonprofit volunteer organization (U.S. 501c3) made up of professional zoo keepers and other interested persons dedicated to professional animal care and conservation.

AAZK’s purpose is to foster a professional attitude in animal keepers and aquarists by encouraging them to become active members of professional teams at today’s zoos and aquariums. AAZK supports the promotion and implementation of zookeeper education and strives to make the general public aware of our concern for all deserving conservation projects and the need for the preservation of our natural resources and the species that depend on those resources.

Serving as a professional organization for zookeepers, AAZK is a valuable resource for dedicated animal care workers. AAZK is dedicated to advancing animal care, promoting public awareness, enhancing professional development and contributing to local and global conservation through fundraising and stewardship. Our goal is to inspire and motivate through our roles as animal caregivers, educators and conservationists. Through workshops, conferences, newsletters, and internet forums, AAZK helps animal care staff stay current in husbandry, training, nutrition, and conservation. Well educated keepers using modern techniques means the animals in their care benefit tremendously.

Reminders Board

2013 AAZK National Conference

2013_logo_small Greensboro, NC
22-26 September 2013

New Dedicated Issue Available

The new Animal Keepers' Forum issue dedicated to chelonians is available for purchase in our shop.

Change of Address

If your mailing or email address has changed, please send an updated address here.

Upcoming Conferences

Greensboro, NC September 22-26, 2013 Orlando, FL
September 8-12, 2014

Latest News

Sad Announcement from Lewa

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy deeply regrets to announce the death of Anna Merz, one of the Conservancy's iconic founders and renowned conservationist. 82-year-old Anna passed away today in a South African hospital, further details pertaining to her death will be communicated later. Anna, along with the Craig family, founded the Ngare Sergoi Rhino Sanctuary, which would read more…

Applications Now Being Accepted for the Bowling for Rhinos Conservation Resource Grant

American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Bowling for Rhinos Conservation Resource Grant

The American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. (AAZK) is pleased to announce the call for proposals for the Bowling for Rhinos Conservation Resource Grant. This competitive grant is designed to fund projects focused on rhino conservation and research. The total amount of funds read more…

A Word from Anna Merz

anna3 Take just a minute to read these words from Anna Merz.