American Association of Zoo Keepers

About AAZK

The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) began in 1967 in San Diego, CA to promote professionalism in zoo keeping through education of zoological staff members in the most modern and current techniques of animal care. AAZK is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization made up of professional zoo keepers and other interested persons dedicated to professional animal care and conservation. Membership is currently about 2,800 individuals including all levels of zoo staff from directors, curators and veterinarians to zoo keepers, animal health technicians, volunteers and students. Members are from 48 of the 50 States, 5 Canadian Provinces and 24 foreign countries and represent nearly 250 animal-related facilities.

AAZK’s mission is to advance excellence in the animal-keeping profession, foster effective communication beneficial to animal care, support deserving conservation projects, and promote the preservation of our natural resources and animal life.

Our AAZK Chapter

Established in 1981, the AAZK Zoo New England Chapter (AAZK ZNE) is dedicated to zoo keeper professional development and the conservation of animals. Comprised of staff and affiliates of Zoo New England, AAZK ZNE operates out of Franklin Park Zoo in Boston, MA and includes members from both Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA.

Our chapter supports AAZK’s mission by providing professional development scholarships for members, hosting a professional development speaker series for zoo staff, and donating a portion of our annual funds towards national and international conservation initiatives. In the past, we have donated funds to the AZA/Ape TAG Conservation Initiative, International Crane Foundation, International Snow Leopard Trust, Emerald Necklace Conservancy, Massachusetts Audubon, Franklin Park Coalition, Forest Hills Educational Trust, Maggie Foundation, and much more.

AAZK’s conservation partners:

• Action for Cheetahs in Kenya
• Animal Behavior Management Alliance
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums
• International Congress of Zookeepers
• International Rhino Foundation
• Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
• Polar Bears International
• Red Panda Network
• Savenature.org
• Seafood Watch Program
• Snow Leopard Trust
• Turtle Survival Alliance
• Zoological Association of America
• Foundation for the Conservation of Salamanders
• Vital Ground

Contact Us

Learn more about how to get involved, donate, or find out about upcoming events.