Welcome to the website of the Smithonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Asian elephant Linh Mai's first time in any outdoor yard at the Smithsonian's National Zoo.

Meet Linh Mai

She's here! Visit the Zoo to see the new Asian elephant calf up close.

Discover unforgettable stories from the Smithsonian's giant panda program — and the science that helps protect one of the world's most beloved animals.

Stay up to date with the latest Linh Mai news, check out our live Elephant Cam, learn more about EleFest in August or donate to support elephant care and conservation.

LATEST STORIES

July 31, 2026

Meet Our Bat-eared Fox Family ›

Feast your eyes on our frisky bat-eared fox kits—the first born here in 75 years—in this keeper Q&A!

July 17, 2026

Happy National Zookeeper Week ›

Join us in celebrating the dedicated professionals who care for our animal ambassadors!

July 17, 2026

See Linh Mai Take Her First Swim ›

Look who’s learning to “elephant paddle!” Linh Mai, our 5-month-old Asian elephant calf, reached a major milestone this week: baby’s first swim!

July 17, 2026

Practical Tips for Anyone Currently Raising Nine Flamingo Chicks ›

Flamingo parenting comes with plenty of surprises. Bird House curator Sara Hallager explains.

July 15, 2026

Sloth Bear Cubs ‘Ozzy’ and ‘Champa’ Make Their Debut ›

We could hardly "bear" the wait. A shaggy pair of sloth bear cubs have officially made their Zoo debut.

July 14, 2026

Can Cryopreservation Rescue the World's Rarest Wolf? ›

With only a few hundred red wolves left, Smithsonian scientist Jennifer Nagashima is pioneering new ways to preserve their genetic diversity.

July 02, 2026

How Well Do You Know the Bald Eagle? ›

It's on our currency, our seals, and in our imagination. But how well do you really know the bald eagle?

June 25, 2026

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.

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.


A Celebration of American Wildlife

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Smithsonian scientists are collecting ecological data along the route of the Lewis and Clark expedition.  


Purchase your plush toys, books, and apparel inspired by the amazing animals at the Zoo. Proceeds from each sale support the Smithsonian mission. 


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.