In the Company of Pandas with Dr. Brandie Smith
Join Zoo Director Dr. Brandie Smith for a special conversation before the release of her new book.
ZooLights
Explore glowing animal lanterns, twinkling lights, cozy treats and live music. Select evenings Nov. 20 – Jan. 3.
LATEST STORIES
Celebrating Vet Tech Week 2026
In celebration of Vet Tech Week, take a sneak peek into a day in the life of our vet techs!
Researchers Crack Amphibian Cold Case Using Museum Specimens
New research ties dramatic losses of Brazilian frogs in the 1970s to deadly amphibian chytrid fungus.
How Do You Build a National Conservation Plan?
Follow the five-year journey that brought together governments, zoos, and conservation experts to give the lowland tapir a fighting chance.
Cheetah Cam Returns With a New Litter of Five Adorable Cubs
Four generations of one cheetah family now live at the Zoo's off-campus research facility. Meet the newest members.
ZooLights Returns Nov. 20
The holiday season will shine brighter when ZooLights returns this November. Tickets on sale now.
Fascinating Facts About North American Porcupines
There are plenty of surprises to discover about these prickly creatures.
Watch the Meerkats Play With Halloween Enrichment
Seven meerkats got a Halloween-themed surprise from their keepers. See how they dug in.
New Research: Climate Refuges May Be Key To Restoring Amphibians
As deadly disease continues to ravage wild frog populations, scientists in Panama found places where amphibians might be able to persist in the presence of disease.
Animal Cams
Watch giant pandas, elephants, lions and naked mole-rats on camera at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Go Behind the Scenes of Panda Conservation
Discover unforgettable stories from the Smithsonian's giant panda program — and the science that helps protect one of the world's most beloved animals.
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.