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Protecting endangered species

We're working with some of the most endangered species on the planet to restore the natural world. 

From research to fieldwork, and in our Zoos, we identify and conserve the species at risk of extinction – and get them on the road to recovery. We've completed the most comprehensive scientific study of average wildlife populations to shape conservation globally, replanted over one million mangrove trees and rescued pangolins from the clutches of the illegal wildlife trade.

    A school of fish and a coral reef
    Sharks, corals and butterflies

    Fish and Invertebrates

    From clouds of Monarch butterflies flying from the trees after their winter hibernation, or 50 million sardines synchronised together and moving as one, these species are responsible for some of the most awe-inspiring moments on earth.

    Atheris certaophora eating a frog
    Some of the most threatened species on the planet

    Reptiles and Amphibians

    Pressures such as the deadly chytrid fungus, illegal trade, habitat loss and climate change have led to predictions that a large proportion of all reptile and amphibian species could go extinct over the next century.

    Black rhino, hooked up lip can be seen which is main difference with white rhino
    Species

    Black rhino

    We’re working to find new ways to fight poaching for the illegal wildlife trade, like developing technology that uses sensors and cameras to detect humans and wildlife.

    Forest elephant in the Congo Basin
    Species

    African forest elephant

    Historically, African elephants have always been treated as one species, but in 2021 this all changed.

    Two African elephants with large tusks
    Species

    African Savannah elephant

    The main threats to the remaining savannah elephant populations in this region are illegal poaching for ivory alongside habitat loss and fragmentation.

    Hazel dormouse close-up, dark circular eyes with rosy orange fur
    Reintroducing the hazel dormouse to British countryside

    Hazel dormouse

    By working together with our conservation partners, we've managed to successfully reintroduce over 1,000 dormice

    Pangolin close-up in a desert
    Species

    Pangolins

    Once found thriving in the wild, today all of the eight remaining species of pangolin are rapidly decreasing in numbers. We're working to o keep them a part of a vibrant and balanced world of wildlife and biodiversity.

    Asiatic Lion walking in grasslands
    Species

    Lions

    Male lions' manes are used to attract females, as well as protecting their neck and head from injuries during fights.

    grey reef shark with fish
    Meet the fish which predate dinosaurs

    Sharks

    We're experts in the field of shark research and work all over the world with our partners to study and conserve several different species.

    Northwest African Cheetah
    Species

    Northwest African Cheetahs

    Northwest African Cheetahs are extinct in more than 20 countries, with fewer than 8,000 remaining in the wild.

    Guam kingfisher (Sihek) sitting on branch
    Ground-breaking conservation success stories

    Birds

    Learn more about the important bird conservation and protection work carried out by ZSL by experts around the world.

    An Amur tiger sitting on grass at Whipsnade Zoo
    Species

    Amur tiger

    Discover Amur tiger threats and how, at ZSL, we're working to save Amur tigers.

    Pack of west African wild dogs captured on a camera trap
    Species

    West African wild dog

    We're fighting for their future in their last remaining stronghold, where there are just 70 remaining individuals in the wild.

    badger drinking water from a stream
    Species

    Badger

    Get the lowdown on these iconic stripy-faced mammals with our surprising badger facts!