Topeka Zoo

The Topeka Zoo is involved in a number of conservation management programs and our staff members contribute to animal management through service on the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) animal management groups. Our involvement includes:

Species Survival Plans (SSPs)

SSPs are a cooperative population management and conservation program administered by the AZA. The program focuses on select species within zoos and aquariums that are typically classified as threatened or endangered. The Topeka Zoo participates in 13 SSPs, including: Asian small-clawed otter, Bali mynah, Western Lowland gorilla, black-and-white ruffed lemur, Bornean orangutan, Reticulated giraffe, Asian elephant, African elephant, Sumatran tiger, African lion and Pallas cat.

Population Management Programs (PMPs)

PMPs provide recommendations on basic population management decisions for zoo and aquarium species that are not managed through SSPs. These animals typically require less intensive management and conservation efforts. Several members of the Topeka Zoo staff serve as institutional representatives on PMPs, including: hippos, Chilean flamingos, red-capped cardinals, Dumerils' ground boa, Large Malayan chevortains, Prehensile-tailed skinks, Mexican beaded lizards, blue-crowned motmots, Crested porcupines, South American prehensile-tailed porcupines, Nicobar pigeons, Trumpeter swans, Hammerkop stork, Lesser hedgehog tenrecs, Crested wood partridges, Roseate spoonbills, Hoffmanns two-toed sloth, Mexican red kneed tarantula.

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