A Wide Range of Support
Field conservation programs directly help species and habitats survive in the wild. These programs take place beyond the zoo's gates but not necessarily outside the country or even the Chicago area. Chicago Zoological Society staff are involved in and oversee field conservation efforts and provide financial and logistical support to others who are engaged in field conservation projects.
In addition, many Society programs, particularly conservation research programs and education programs, support field conservation by providing knowledge needed to do conservation or by encouraging people to get involved with conservation projects.
Field conservation projects can include:
- The reintroduction of a species to the wild.
- Working to establish or maintain a protected area or park.
- Helping to control human-caused instances of animal mortality or stress.
- Developing alternative means of survival for people whose actions are harming wildlife or habitats.
- Identifying priorities for conservation action.
- Conducting surveys to identify the habitat or other environmental needs of threatened species.
The three main arenas for the zoo's field conservation programs are in the Chicagoland area, with ongoing staff-led international projects, and through grants and awards for important conservation efforts.