Chehaw is dedicated to protecting endangered species and their habitats. Responsible zoological facilities contribute to conservation through research and education and provide guests the opportunity to develop personal connections with animals. By fostering these connections, Chehaw has the opportunity to help society cultivate an appreciation for wildlife populations in their native habitats.
Conservation efforts at Chehaw Park & Zoo include:
• Support of in-situ conservation efforts
• Support of ex-situ conservation efforts
• Interpretive materials with a conservation message
• Education programming with a conservation message
• Implementation of Green Practices across Park and Zoo operations
• Participation in AZA Animal Management Programs
• Maintaining natural biodiversity and habitat health through proper maintenance of the property and wetlands
All animals in the Zoo’s exhibit and education collections serve as ambassadors for their wild relatives and native homes. Chehaw follows all guidelines and recommendations regarding AZA and other reputable population management programs.
Chehaw also supports various in-situ conservation programs including:
The Cheetah Conservation Fund strives to prevent cheetah population decline in its natural habitat. Through education and by implementing beneficial programs for native people, CCF promotes predator-friendly livestock management techniques with farmers whose animals may be targeted by wild cheetahs.
International Rhino Foundation
The International Rhino Foundation is dedicated to the survival of the world’s rhino species through conservation, research, and education. IRF supports a number of initiatives to combat poaching and funds research programs that may contribute to the long-term survival of all rhino species.
Project Heloderma’s mission is to conserve the critically endangered Guatemalan beaded lizard and its habitat in the Motagua Valley. Directly because of this program, the number of lizards killed by local inhabitants has been reduced, and the captive breeding program is successfully bringing about the elevation of the species.