Celebrating America's 250th ›
Explore the iconic species that have shaped the nation's culture, history and landscapes as the Smithsonian prepares to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.
EleFest ›
Come celebrate Linh Mai, the Zoo's newest Asian elephant calf, with a three-day festival packed with culture, conservation and community.
LATEST STORIES
America’s Bird: 9 Fascinating Facts About the Bald Eagle ›
It's on our currency, our seal, and our imagination — but how well do you really know America's bird?
7 Fascinating Facts About the Fishing Cat ›
Think cats hate water? Learn what makes the fishing cat one of Asia’s most remarkable, and least understood, wild predators.
How Handmade Medical Replicas Help Zoo Animals ›
Veterinary technician Jo Fujito builds dummy devices that help the National Zoo’s animals practice for medical procedures.
The Striped Skunk: America’s Misunderstood Neighbor ›
They're one of North America’s most recognizable animals, but how well do you really know these fascinating creatures?
EleFest Celebration Coming Aug. 7–9 ›
Visitors can celebrate elephants during EleFest, a three-day festival at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute Aug. 7–9.
Meet Our Brown Pelican Trio ›
Get to know our delightful brown pelican rescues—Eugene, Pippin and Frankie—in this Q&A with keeper Erin Whatley.
How We're Studying Wildlife Along the Lewis and Clark Trail ›
Smithsonian scientists and partners are retracing Lewis and Clark's journey — with a 21st-century toolkit.
Want to Restore Stream Habitat? Think Like a Beaver ›
Smithsonian researcher Maya Rayle is studying whether artificial beaver dams can revive the stream valleys of the Great Plains.
Animal Cams
Watch giant pandas, elephants, lions, black-footed ferrets and naked mole-rats on camera at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
NZCBI Annual Report 2025
Whether it's welcoming pandas back to Washington D.C. or tracking endangered frogs in Panama, learn more about the critical role Smithsonian scientists and staff are playing in conservation work around the world.
The Lewis and Clark Resurvey
As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Smithsonian scientists are collecting ecological data along the route of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Shop for the Herd
Purchase your plush toys, books, and apparel inspired by the amazing animals at the Zoo. Proceeds from each sale support the Smithsonian mission.
We Save Species
Our science plays a leading role in the Smithsonian’s global efforts to save wildlife species from extinction.
Explore our conservation programs at the Zoo and our research headquarters in Front Royal, Virginia.