On World Wildlife Conservation Day, the Los Angeles Zoo Monday released an annual report highlighting its efforts to protect species and habitats as it nears the midway point of an "ambitious" five-year Conservation Strategic Plan.
The 2023 Conservation Strategic Plan Annual Report also helps ensure the zoo meets goals under its overall Conservation Strategic Plan, officials said.
"The Conservation Strategic Plan was developed to help guide a dramatic expansion of the L.A. Zoo's impact on efforts to conserve wildlife and the habitats in Los Angeles and around the world," Jake Owens, director of conservation for the zoo, said in a statement.
"Ultimately, the success of this plan is a key component to fulfilling our mission to save wildlife, enrich our communities, and create connections to nature."
In July 2021, the zoo launched its five-year plan, the first in the zoo's history. The zoo said the plan is guided by six focal areas -- social and environmental justice; human-wildlife coexistence; California conservation; combating the illegal wildlife trade; conservation translocations; and evidence- based conservation.
According to Owens, since 2021, the zoo has made "significant strides" by strengthening its connections with existing global partnerships and expanding their network.
"We have developed a broad portfolio of projects and look forward to continuing our growth as a leader in conservation as we work toward our vision; creating a just and sustainable world where people and wildlife thrive, together," Owens said.
World Wildlife Conservation Day is observed Dec. 4. It highlights ongoing efforts to safeguard and preserve endangered populations of wildlife species. The day is also used to advocate for the enforcement of the Endangered Species Act and to raise awareness of wildlife crimes.
The zoo's complete annual report can be found at https://bit.ly/LAZooCSP.
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