Pittsburgh Zoo Receives AZA Accreditation

Following years of behind-the-scenes work by HAP leadership, on March 19, 2021, the Pittsburgh Zoo announced it was beginning the process of reinstating its AZA accreditation. In September 2024, the Zoo was approved by a unanimous vote to have its accreditation reinstated, a significant step forward in ensuring more humane treatment of animals in captivity.

The Zoo ended its AZA accreditation in 2015 after disagreements with the AZA over elephant care standards, despite violating its lease with the city of Pittsburgh, which requires it to maintain AZA accreditation. Instead, the Zoo pursued accreditation from the ZAA, a weaker accreditation body that allowed unprotected contact between elephants and keepers—a dangerous practice HAP consistently opposed.

Restoring the Zoo’s AZA accreditation marks a significant victory for animal welfare, raising the standard of care at the Pittsburgh Zoo. Humane Action Pennsylvania is committed to ensuring the Zoo operates at the highest standard possible for a zoo. While we recognize this as a positive step forward, we will continue to monitor their practices to safeguard the well-being of the animals.