Utah’s Hogle Zoo achieves Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation with a perfect inspection
Hogle Zoo becomes 10th zoo to achieve a rare perfect score
The team at Utah’s Hogle Zoo is celebrating a milestone achievement—a perfect score during our accreditation inspection from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). In September 2025, AZA granted accreditation to Hogle Zoo with a rare perfect score, indicating there were no lesser or major concerns throughout the zoo. In AZA’s 51 years of granting accreditations, Hogle Zoo is only the 10th organization to achieve a perfect score and a clean evaluation.
A team of independent zoological professionals conducted onsite inspections over several days, encompassing Hogle Zoo’s entire operation, including animal wellbeing, veterinary care, safety, staff training, conservation initiatives, educational programs, governance, financial stability, and guest services. During the inspection, the visiting committee made notable mentions across the zoo, including:
- organized facilities
- innovative safety systems
- highly effective security programs
- comprehensive radio and camera capabilities
- staff’s collaborative spirit
The Aline W. Skaggs Wild Utah habitat was recognized for its modern zoological practices and forward-thinking interpretive focus on local wildlife. Additionally, the Canine Champions for Conservation program was highlighted for enhancing guest experience and conservation education.
AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission thoroughly evaluated detailed reports from the inspection team and Hogle Zoo’s application materials. Finally, the Accreditation Commission conducted a standard hearing with Hogle Zoo leadership to assess operations and management further. At the hearing, Hogle Zoo’s Informal Science Education Enhancement (iSEE) program, which reaches 2nd-grade students across the state, was also complimented.
Fewer than 10% of the 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are AZA–accredited. Hogle Zoo has received consecutive AZA accreditation since 1979 and remains committed to comprehensive standards.
A thorough accreditation process, completed every five years, ensures AZA facilities have met and will continue to meet rising standards that reflect modern practices, creating environments where animals thrive and guests are inspired through education and conservation. “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,” said Ashe.
What is the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (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 guests, and a better future for all living things.
- The AZA is a leader in saving species and your connection to helping animals worldwide. To learn more, visit aza.org.
- Hogle Zoo members can enjoy discounted admission at other AZA zoos and aquariums through the AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program, including Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City.
Utah's Hogle Zoo
