Oakland Zoo was established on June 6, 1922, when the Oakland institution then known as The Snow Museum officially opened to the public.‍ As one of the city’s most long-standing institutions, we are nationally recognized as a leader in animal welfare, rescue, and conservation; and have served as a place of wonder and discovery for millions of people over the years.

As one of the city’s most long-standing institutions, we are nationally recognized as a leader in animal welfare, rescue, and conservation; and have served as a place of wonder and discovery for millions of people over the years.

Our commitment to animal care is evident in many ways – through our groundbreaking work in animal management practices and the large, naturalistic, species-considerate habitats for animals. We believe that thriving animals engaged in their environment are healthier, happier, and help inspire zoo guests to be stewards of the natural world.

Our work extends well beyond the Zoo. With over 25 wildlife conservation partners globally, we take pride in providing funds to support their programs and efforts to save wildlife. Through our partnership with California Department of Fish & Wildlife, we accept, rehabilitate, and re-home wildlife rescued from wildfire and human-wildlife conflict. In the past five years alone, this includes 17 mountain lions, 36 California condors, 8 bears, and over 600 yellow-legged frogs.

As a proud Oakland institution, we are also involved in our community, offering free and discounted education programs to schools, supporting other non-profits, and offering free and discounted admission to underserved families and children. You can learn more about Oakland Zoo’s commitment and accomplishments in our annual Impact Report.

And as we celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2022 and look to the future, we ask for your help in supporting a ballot measure for Oakland Zoo. This ballot measure will ensure that not only can we survive another crisis like the long-term closure brought on by the pandemic, but that we can also continue to expand and grow in our dedication and pursuit of excellence in animal care and welfare, educational programming for children, and increased accessibility for all. Read our FAQs or detailed Investment Plan for funding.