Summer is here and half of 2024 is already behind us, so I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements and milestones we’ve reached together so far this year at the Los Angeles Zoo. It’s already proven to be a season of growth, learning, and profound impact. I am thrilled to share some highlights with you.
First, our commitment to education and community engagement has been resoundingly evident with the kickoff of our summer programs. This year, we have more than 1,100 campers being introduced to the wonders of wildlife through Zoo Camp. We are working to ensure they have fun and engaging opportunities to appreciate nature and develop empathy for species through an introduction to conservation and animal care. The enthusiasm and curiosity these campers bring reminds us why we do what we do—to inspire the next generation of conservationists, animal advocates, and stewards of the environment.
In addition to our campers, we are thrilled to mark the third successful year of our Paid Internship Program. This summer, 19 new interns are working alongside our Learning & Engagement and Conservation experts, gaining valuable hands-on experience in various aspects of zoo operations and conservation science. These interns represent a diverse cross-section of our community, embodying our commitment to inclusion and providing opportunities for passionate individuals from every corner of Los Angeles.
Another remarkable achievement this season was the inaugural L.A. Zoo Youth Conservation Symposium, orchestrated by the second cohort of our Teen Conservation Council. This event, held in June, focused on the theme “Raising Our Voices: Amplifying Teen Voices for a Just and Sustainable Los Angeles.” It was a culmination of weeks of dedication and learning by our young conservation leaders, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact on our environment and their communities. Their efforts truly embody the spirit of the Los Angeles Zoo’s vision to create a just and sustainable world where people and wildlife thrive, together.
I am also delighted to share that the Zoo welcomed more than 1.5 million visitors through our gates this past year. This is the highest number since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic and underscores the vital role the Zoo plays as a beloved community resource. Your continued support and enthusiasm are the foundation of our success, and we are deeply grateful for your love of the Zoo.
Moreover, our California Condor team has achieved an extraordinary feat this spring. I am beyond proud to congratulate them on a record-breaking season. Through their innovative husbandry techniques, including the pioneering of triple brooding for the first time ever, they have successfully hatched 17 healthy chicks—an all-time, single-season record since we joined the program as a founding partner in 1982! The chicks are all candidates for release into the wild and are poised to play an important role in the continued success of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) California Condor Recovery Program. This achievement is a true testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in advancing species conservation.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the possibilities that lie before us. As we continue to grow and evolve, our commitment to animal care, conservation, and community engagement remains steadfast. Your support and involvement are integral to our mission of saving wildlife, enriching our communities, and creating connections to nature, and together we can make a lasting impact.
Thank you for being an essential part of the Los Angeles Zoo family. We look forward to sharing more successes and our continued impact in the months ahead.
