Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Established by an Act of Congress in 1889, the National Zoo began with a mission focused on the conservation of North American species, particularly the American bison, which was then on the brink of extinction. The zoo's initial collection was housed on the National Mall before moving to its permanent home in the lush, hilly terrain of Rock Creek Park. This site was specifically selected and designed by the legendary landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who sought to create a naturalistic environment where animals and visitors could coexist harmoniously. In 1967, the zoo officially became part of the Smithsonian Institution, solidifying its role as a premier center for scientific research and public education. The mid-20th century marked a significant shift toward global conservation efforts, notably with the arrival of the first giant pandas, Ling-Ling and Hsing-Hsing, in 1972 as a gift from China following President Nixon's historic visit. This event transformed the zoo into an international destination and sparked decades of groundbreaking research into panda breeding and habitat preservation. Today, the National Zoo is a leader in global wildlife care, operating the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia. It houses approximately 2,100 animals representing nearly 400 different species. The zoo continues to evolve with state-of-the-art exhibits like the Elephant Trails and the American Trail, emphasizing the critical importance of biodiversity and the ongoing fight to protect endangered species across every continent.