The Hattiesburg Zoo is proud to announce that it has received accreditation from the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). Having recently undergone accreditation assessment, the Hattiesburg Zoo has proven that it exemplifies the ZAA’s commitment to excellence in animal care and welfare, animal, staff and visitor safety, and facility operations.
“At the Hattiesburg Zoo, our focus has been on creating innovative, impactful experiences that engage our visitors while contributing to vital conservation efforts,” said Rick Taylor, Executive Director of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, which has managed and overseen operation of the Hattiesburg Zoo since 2010. “This accreditation is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our entire team, their leadership in animal care, their focus on zoological education and outreach, and a zoo-wide commitment to excellence.”
The Hattiesburg Zoo meets all ZAA objectives which are:
- Professional standards for husbandry and animal care practices.
- Accurate animal and medical records.
- Appropriate, safe and quality existence for animals kept in captive environment.
- Safe environment for humans; both staff and visitors.
- Enhanced survival of species using appropriate methods.
“We have long known that our community sees the improvements that the Hattiesburg Zoo has made over the years,” said Jeremy Cumpton, Director of Conservation and Education for the Hattiesburg Zoo. “From expansions and renovations to cultural changes within our organization, our journey to accreditation has been filled with obstacles and achievements.” “This accreditation shows us that not only does our community recognize the hard work we have put in but that leaders in our profession do as well,” continued Cumpton.
Among ZAA benefits, the Hattiesburg Zoo will have access to the ZAA’s Veterinary Advisory Group. “ZAA holds zoos to a higher standard of care,” said Dr. Julia MacGregor, veterinarian for the Hattiesburg Zoo. “The fact that we are accredited speaks to the level of care and hard work staff put in at Hattiesburg Zoo.” “I’m also excited that we, as a ZAA facility, will be able to further contribute to conservation by participating in their Animal Management Programs, aiding in the survival of keystone, threatened, and endangered species for future generations,” continued MacGregor.
As a ZAA member, the Hattiesburg Zoo will have member-only resources, and will have the opportunity to participate in the Animal Management Program (AMP). “Our goal has always been excellence in Animal Care and Welfare and to receive accreditation is an amazing way to recognize that behind the scenes hard work,” said Kristen Moore, Director of Animal Care. “We are proud to be the zoo that Hattiesburg deserves, and are committed to growing our animal population in partnership with ZAA.”
