After a rigorous evaluation process, the Atascadero zoo celebrates its commitment to animal care, conservation, and community education

By Hayley Mattson and Camille DeVaul 

ATASCADERO — On March 26, the Charles Paddock Zoo was granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a distinction that places the zoo among the top 10% of zoological institutions worldwide. The achievement marks a significant milestone in the zoo’s commitment to animal care, conservation, and education.

Dan Ashe, the president and CEO of AZA, expressed his congratulations to the zoo’s leadership and staff, emphasizing that the accreditation represents the “global ‘gold standard'” in zoological care. “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,” Ashe said in a press release. “The Charles Paddock Zoo has demonstrated a dedication to this exceptional level of care.”

The process of obtaining AZA accreditation is said to be a rigorous one, requiring the zoo to undergo a thorough review that includes everything from animal care to staff training and conservation efforts. The zoo underwent a meticulous on-site inspection by an independent team of zoological professionals, who analyzed all aspects of its operations. Following the inspection, the zoo was evaluated by the AZA’s Accreditation Commission, which granted the accreditation after a comprehensive formal hearing.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in providing exceptional care for our animals, fostering meaningful connections between guests and wildlife, and contributing to vital conservation efforts,” said Atascadero Mayor Charles Bourbeau. “We are incredibly honored to receive AZA-accreditation.”

For Dr. Cynthia Stringfield, zoo director at Charles Paddock Zoo, earning this accreditation is a moment of immense pride. “AZA continually increases the standards for accreditation, and I am so proud of the Zoo Team and grateful to our supporters!” she said. “Only 10% of zoos across the world meet these standards, and the Charles Paddock Zoo is one of them!”

“When you apply for AZA accreditation, it involves all aspects of the zoo’s operation,” Stringfield explained. “Many areas of the zoo have been updated and improved to meet AZA’s standards, and since these standards are always rising, it’s been an ongoing process of adaptation and improvement.”

A key factor in this progress has been the City of Atascadero’s increased funding, which allowed the zoo to enhance its facilities and hire additional staff. This financial support has been crucial in ensuring that the zoo can meet the ever-growing demands of animal care and operational standards.

As a result of these improvements, the zoo has been able to offer a more enriched experience for both its animals and visitors. One of the highlights of this year’s celebrations was the public’s first chance to view the new spider monkeys in their habitat and the opening of the Cerrado Aviaries. The aviaries, home to the stunning hyacinth macaws and toco toucans, were a hit with zoo visitors. “The community was absolutely thrilled with the new additions, and we received a lot of positive feedback,” Stringfield shared. “A special moment was when visitors signed a ‘Congratulations’ banner in celebration of the accreditation.”

With AZA accreditation now in place, the zoo’s daily operations have been elevated in several key ways. “As an AZA-accredited zoo, we are part of all AZA’s programs, which is incredibly important,” Stringfield stated. “One of the most significant programs we participate in are the animal conservation programs, where we are part of scientifically determined breeding programs to save species. Without AZA accreditation, we wouldn’t have the opportunity to house some of the amazing animals we have.”

The zoo is now able to participate in international conservation programs, which focus on preserving endangered species and their habitats. These programs are vital not only to the animals involved but to the broader global effort to conserve biodiversity.

The Charles Paddock Zoo has always been an integral part of the Atascadero community, and this accreditation strengthens its role in local education and conservation efforts. Stringfield said that the zoo’s commitment to community engagement is a cornerstone of its mission. “We work in local conservation efforts for species like the monarch butterfly and California condor, both of which are at risk of extinction,” she explained. “Additionally, we offer outreach programs where people can experience animals up close while learning about them.”

The zoo also hosts special programs for schoolchildren and summer camp participants, allowing them to deepen their understanding of the natural world. “We’re excited to expand our educational programs in the future,” Stringfield said. “We’ve seen firsthand how much children and families appreciate these programs, and we look forward to offering even more opportunities for people to connect with wildlife.”

The Charles Paddock Zoo is known for specializing in species from biodiversity hotspots around the world. These regions are home to a disproportionate number of species found nowhere else on Earth. The zoo’s exhibits offer visitors a chance to learn about these critical ecosystems and why they are so important for global biodiversity.

The Charles Paddock Zoo’s AZA accreditation is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With expanded conservation programs, enhanced educational offerings, and continued improvements to the facility, the zoo is poised to be a leader in animal care and environmental stewardship. As Stringfield noted, the support from the community has been invaluable, and the zoo will continue to work alongside local partners to make a meaningful impact on conservation efforts.

“This is a proud moment for the zoo and our community,” Stringfield concluded. “We’re excited for what the future holds and look forward to continuing to share our passion for wildlife with visitors of all ages.”

Feature Image: Atascadero Mayor Charles Bourbeau (in green shirt) and SLO County Supervisor (and former Atascadero Mayor) Heather Moreno, join City Councilmembers, city officials and zoo staff to celebrate Charles Paddock Zoo getting AZA accreditation. Contributed Photo