By Craig Anderson

WILMINGTON - The Brandwyine Zoo has received re-accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Commission after a detailed review process that analyzed all aspects of the facility’s operation, a news release said.

The accreditation was awarded at the 2022 Conference of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums held in Baltimore, according to the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

The accreditation assures the Brandywine Zoo meets or exceeds professional standards and is a continued mark of excellence for the zoo, which has been accredited zoo since 1986, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control said.

Delaware’s only AZA-accredited zoo is a member among 237 other accredited facilities and 15 certified related facilities throughout the U.S. and 12 other countries.

The Brandywine Zoo must undergo rigorous inspections, examinations and reporting every five years to maintain accreditation as a condition of membership. The review process includes animal welfare and well-being; veterinary care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; financial stability; risk management; governance; and guest services.

“We are proud of our Brandywine Zoo, a gem in the heart of Wilmington, and all it offers to the local community and those who travel to see the exotic and endangered animals,” said Department of Natural Resources Secretary Shawn Garvin.

“Recent upgrades we have made at the zoo and our upcoming plans have only increased its caliber and this accreditation is well deserved. I commend our staff and the Delaware Zoological Society for their work to ensure Brandywine Zoo remains a top-notch facility to connect people with and care for its rare animals.”

This accreditation also increases eligibility for funding and grants from certain foundations, corporations and other sources; permits participation in Animal Exchange – access to specimens from other accredited zoos and aquariums for loan and/or breeding; and allows the Brandywine Zoo to participate in the Association of Zoos’ flagship Animal Conservation Program, the Species Survival Plan.

The Brandywine Zoo at 1001 N. Park Drive in Wilmington features animals from the tropical and temperate areas of North and South America, Asia and Africa and provides numerous learning experiences, conservation projects, community outreach programs and special events for all ages throughout the year. The zoo is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Christmas.