Silver Spring, Md. September 13, 2025 – The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has announced that Sunset Zoo was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. Of the 32 applications for accreditation reviewed by the Commission during AZA’s Annual Conference held in Tampa, Florida, 31 were granted accreditation.
“Congratulations to the leadership and staff at Sunset Zoo for attaining the global ‘gold standard’ in zoological and aquarium accreditation,” said Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “AZA’s standards continuously evolve to reflect best practices in the zoo and aquarium profession, with a strong emphasis on animal care and wellbeing at their core. Sunset Zoo has demonstrated a dedication to this exceptional level of care.”
AZA accreditation includes a detailed application and a meticulous multiple-day on-site inspection by an independent team of zoological professionals. The inspecting team analyzes all aspects of the facility’s operation, including animal care and wellbeing; veterinary care; staff training; educational programs; conservation efforts; financial stability; governance; and guest services. Detailed reports from the inspection team and the facility alike are then thoroughly evaluated by the Accreditation Commission. Finally, the Commission interviews top officials from the facility at a formal hearing, after which accreditation is fully granted, provisionally granted for one year, or denied.
A thorough review ensures that each facility has met and will continue to meet ever-rising standards. As a condition of Association membership, AZA facilities must complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years.
“We are very excited to be granted accreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for another 5 years,” commented Zoo Director, Scott Shoemaker. “Our staff worked extremely hard to meet these standards and we will continue to strive to meet them in our day-to-day efforts.”
Manhattan Parks and Recreation Director, Aaron Stewart, added, “AZA accreditation is more than a credential—it’s a promise to Manhattan that animals at Sunset Zoo receive the highest standard of care and that our staff provide a guest experience that is safe, educational, and meaningful. Fewer than 10% of zoos worldwide hold this accreditation, and Sunset Zoo is proud to be among this elite group thanks to the diligence and dedication of our staff. This recognition is also a reflection of our community’s support, without which such excellence would not be possible. Today’s achievement honors years of commitment and strengthens our resolve to carry this standard forward into the future.”
There are 240 AZA-accredited institutions and 14 AZA-accredited related facility members throughout the U.S. and 12 other countries. For a complete list of accredited AZA facilities, please visit https://www.aza.org/current-accreditation-list.
About AZA
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is setting the global gold standard, accrediting 254 of the top zoos, aquariums, and related facilities in 13 countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your link to helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.org.
