Frogs, toads, salamanders and newts are vanishing at an unprecedented rate. Smithsonian scientists are working to save amphibians through projects focused in Panama and Appalachia.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
Smithsonian scientists were the first to successfully use in vitro fertilization in domestic dogs and hope to apply these techniques to save vulnerable species, such as the maned wolf.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
Black-footed ferrets, North America’s only native ferret species, were thought to have gone extinct in 1979. On Sept. 26, 1981, a black-footed ferret was discovered on the Wyoming prairie. From that unlikely occurrence, an entire species began its comeback — one of the most remarkable conservation stories on Earth. In honor of the 40th anniversary of the discovery of the last black-footed ferret colony, here are five of this miraculous species’ momentous conservation milestones.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
In June, we’re celebrating World Ocean Month! Learn about some of the amazing aspects of corals and how they shape our world.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
By Mike Henley, Invertebrate Exhibit Keeper at the National Zoo
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
For graduate fellow Sean Lyons, „getting to the root of it all“ was always his focus. So, it comes as no surprise that he wound up working with the root of all life: DNA.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
Exciting news! A trio of maned wolf pups were born this winter at the Zoo’s private conservation campus in Front Royal, Virginia.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo has received good questions about the giant panda weaning process and recent behaviors exhibited by Bei Bei and Mei Xiang. The giant panda science and animal care team put together this FAQ, which includes further context on maternal/cub and pre-estrus behaviors and the history of the giant pandas in the Zoo’s care.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
Don’t be put off by Fofo’s prickly appearance! As his name implies, our prehensile-tailed porcupette is as “cute” as can be! Get to know Fofo in this Q+A with Small Mammal House keepers.
Today’s hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)
