Conserving Our Local Biodiversity

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s Conservation Department is proud to be located in Southeastern Wisconsin, an area designated as critical habitat for species of top conservation priority. Our work supports the preservation of natural habitats and conservation of endangered native species in partnership with other organizations. Together, we are committed to bolstering and conserving our local biodiversity. Staff at the Society work with experts in the field to learn about, and protect, our urban wildlife and important pollinators including the endangered rusty patched bumblebee and Poweshiek skipperling butterfly!

Local Regional Planting

Wild Birds Program

Wild bird populations are in decline. One out of every four songbirds has been lost since the 1970s. The Zoological Society is committed to conserving resident and migratory birds through research, providing resources, and spreading the word on the importance of wild birds and biodiversity. Learn about our efforts to study and conserve wild birds on Milwaukee County Zoo grounds, and how you can help.

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Wild Birds Program

Wild bird populations are in decline. One out of every four songbirds has been lost since the 1970s. The Zoological Society is committed to conserving resident and migratory birds through research, providing resources, and spreading the word on the importance of wild birds and biodiversity. Learn about our efforts to study and conserve wild birds on Milwaukee County Zoo grounds, and how you can help.

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Local Species of Concern

We all have pollinators to thank for the healthy crops that provide us with our food! Unfortunately, these imperiled species are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss and pesticide use among other threats. Learn about our efforts to protect vitally important pollinators and other species of top concern in the state of Wisconsin.

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Learn more about our spring campaign to support overwintering pollinators. By limiting lawn mowing in May, we can provide critical habitat and resources to the pollinators that we rely on!

Zoo Conservation & Research Support

Together with the Milwaukee County Zoo, the Zoological Society supports conservation efforts both in situ (in the wild) and ex situ (in human care). Some examples of this partnership include studying the heart health of great apes, traveling to Belize to assist their staff in research, and helping bring two species of iguanas back from the brink of extinction.

Our Joint Efforts

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Bonobo Sitting

Global Conservation Efforts

The Zoological Society also supports conservation across the globe! Currently, the Society helps ensure the health and genetic diversity in bonobos, a great ape. We work with a number of organizations to help to protect species not only in our home state but throughout the world.

See Our Global Efforts