Conservation

Every year, the list of endangered species grows longer. Habitats disappear, the climate changes, and many species face mounting pressure from hunting, human-wildlife conflict, and other human impacts. For many animals, the future is uncertain.

In this reality, modern zoos have taken on an increasingly important role. Within EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria), more than 400 zoos and aquariums collaborate to protect endangered species and their habitats. The organisation coordinates conservation programmes, research, and education with the goal of contributing to viable populations in the wild.

Kolmården is an active part of this international network, contributing through research, population management, education, and support for conservation projects around the world. Through its commitment within EAZA, Kolmården helps drive the development of modern conservation and species preservation.

Zoos – for a wilder world

EAZA's conservation work is built on the One Plan Approach – the idea that all efforts for a species should work together toward the same goal. Conservation takes place both in situ (in species' natural habitats) and ex situ ("outside nature" in settings such as zoos), in aquariums, and through genetic resource banks. Rather than being seen as separate endeavours, these elements work together by sharing knowledge, research, genetic management, and practical experience.

This is why the animals living in EAZA's member parks are far more than ambassadors for their species. Through hundreds of coordinated conservation programmes, populations are managed jointly across Europe to preserve genetic diversity and establish long-term viable populations. For some species, these programmes have been critical in preventing extinction and have made reintroductions into the wild possible.

Research and the Kolmården Foundation

Research is a central part of conservation work. Each year, Kolmården participates in a large number of research projects that expand our understanding of animal behaviour, health, reproduction, and conservation. The findings are used both to improve animal welfare in human care and to strengthen the protection of wild populations.

Conservation doesn't stop at the zoo's boundaries either. Through the Kolmården Foundation and collaborations within EAZA, Kolmården supports conservation projects in several parts of the world – from the reintroduction of kulans in Kazakhstan and the protection of snow leopards in Mongolia, to the restoration of red panda forests in Nepal. Here, in situ and ex situ work meet in practice through shared goals and a shared responsibility for the future of these species.

At a time when biodiversity is declining faster than ever, collaboration, knowledge, and decisive action are essential. Today's zoos are therefore not just places where people encounter animals – they are part of an international network working to preserve species, protect ecosystems, and inspire people to help create a wilder future.