About Oakland Zoo

"How wonderful to be here in a zoo that is doing so much to protect and restore the natural world."

—Jane Goodall

Oakland Zoo was established on June 6, 1922, when the Oakland institution then known as The Snow Museum officially opened to the public.‍

As one of the city’s most long-standing institutions, we are nationally recognized as a leader in animal welfare, rescue, and conservation; and have served as a place of wonder and discovery for millions of people over the years.

Our commitment to animal care is evident in many ways – through our groundbreaking work in animal management practices and the large, naturalistic, species-considerate habitats for animals. We believe that thriving animals engaged in their environment are healthier, happier, and help inspire zoo guests to be stewards of the natural world.

Our work extends well beyond the Zoo. With over 25 wildlife conservation partners globally, we take pride in providing funds to support their programs and efforts to save wildlife. Through our partnership with California Department of Fish & Wildlife, we accept, rehabilitate, and re-home wildlife rescued from wildfire and human-wildlife conflict. In the past five years alone, this includes 17 mountain lions, 36 California condors, 8 bears, and over 600 yellow-legged frogs.

As a proud Oakland institution, we are also involved in our community, offering free and discounted education programs to schools, supporting other non-profits, and offering free and discounted admission to underserved families and children. You can learn more about Oakland Zoo’s commitment and accomplishments in our annual Impact Report.

Awards and Accolades

“...Oakland Zoo has long prioritized common sense and welfare, and PETA looks forward to continued collaboration on improving the welfare of captive wildlife across the U.S.”

—Brittany Peet, Esq., Director, Captive Animal Law Enforcement, PETA Foundation

Oakland Zoo is managed by the Conservation Society of California (CSC), a non-profit organization leading an informed and inspired community to take action for wildlife locally and globally.