Oakland Zoo was established in 1922 and is managed by the Conservation Society of California, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of wildlife both locally and globally. The Zoo is home to over 700 native and exotic animals. We're recognized for our outstanding animal care, particularly our elephant care program, and for our Leed-certified, 17,000 square foot, state-of-the-art veterinary hospital—the largest wild animal veterinary facility in Northern California.
July 2018 introduces Oakland Zoo guests to an entirely new experience, California Trail, a monumental expansion will further our commitment to animal care, education, and conservation with a focus on this state’s remarkable native wildlife—both past and present.
Conservation Society of California and Oakland Zoo
Oakland Zoo was founded in 1922 by naturalist Henry A. Snow. In 1936, Henry's son, Sidney, established the nonprofit organization East Bay Zoological Society, which was originally known as the Alameda County Botanical and Zoological Society. The East Bay Zoological Society operated and managed the Zoo for the City of Oakland from 1982 until August 2017, when it was renamed the Conservation Society of California to better reflect the Zoo’s evolving purpose and mission in its commitment to conservation.
Our History
Attractions, Animal Care, and Education
Over the past twenty-five years there have been countless capital improvements to improve animal care, habitat design and the visitor experience. The Zoo is comprised of several regions: Adventure Landing, African Savanna, African Veldt, Flamingo Plaza, Tropical Rain Forest, Wayne and Gladys Valley Children's Zoo, Wild Australia, and the upcoming California Trail (July 12, 2018). Over 700 native and exotic animals live in expansive naturalistic habitats and include chimpanzees, sun bears, elephants, lions, giraffes and more. Many of the Zoo’s animals are rescues. In 1991, the Zoo pioneered the “protected contact” methodology in animal husbandry, which places barriers between zookeepers and elephants and incorporates persuasion through rewards rather than discipline. The progress we have made and continue to make to this keystone program has garnered respect and approval from animal behaviorists around the world, and most importantly resulted in happy and healthy elephants. The Zoo is committed to providing an outstanding experience for Zoo visitors, delivering a rich array of education programs and a great family experience.
Conservation Society of California
Governed by a Board of Trustees, the Conservation Society of California manages and operates Oakland Zoo and is comprised of dedicated volunteers who provide oversight of the organization's mission, core values and policies.
