News

One year after a translocation project brought the Guam kingfisher, or sihek, to a remote Pacific island, Zoo scientists say the iconic species is showing signs of recovery.

We are very sad to share that Basil — a rescued Virginia opossum who was favorite of many Small Mammal House visitors — died May 1.

This Amphibian Week, take a closer look at what makes these species so wonderfully weird and worthy of our attention.

Prairie dogs play a critical role across the North American Great Plains, and researchers are learning every day just how much these industrious squirrels do for their neighbors.

A 4-year-old Henkel’s leaf-tailed gecko recently underwent treatment for skin cancer at the Zoo's veterinary hospital.

For National Volunteer Month, we’re shining a spotlight on the people who put their time, heart, and energy towards helping the Zoo thrive.

This letter was sent to the Zoo Neighborhood Council April 8, 2025.

There’s a lot to discover about these energetic little predators — here are some fun facts about the species.

Smithsonian ecologist Claire Bresnan encourages aspiring scientists to take a chance on themselves, and not succumb to "gloom and doom" in her Focus on the Future feature.

It's a question visitors ask staff all the time at the Zoo's Bird House. The answer may surprise you!

Tracking data revealed three groups of long-billed curlew, each with unique migration patterns and conservation needs.

The Zoo's pair of red wolves, Kiawah and Redford, are experts at staying out of sight. Here are some tips to help you find them in their habitat.

Want to tell the Asian elephants apart? This introductory guide will help you spot each of the six residents of the herd.

Exciting news! A trio of maned wolf pups were born this winter at the Zoo's private conservation campus in Front Royal, Virginia.

Get ready for Valentine’s Day by learning how zoo matchmakers use science to “swipe right” for conservation.

How do you help a binturong with arthritis? Learn how our animal care team trained Hank to voluntarily participate in his own healthcare.

Reptile Discovery Center keepers mourn the loss of 26-year-old male Komodo dragon Murphy who died Dec. 23, 2024.

Journey to Montana with Smithsonian scientists and Tribal communities as they protect and preserve American grasslands.

American Trail keepers at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute are mourning the loss of Gunther, a 33-year-old male gray seal who died Jan. 18.

Tiny tracking devices are being used by researchers to monitor the behavior and movements of black-footed ferrets that were reintroduced into the wild.

Giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao made their public debut at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute today.

Camera traps are a valuable tool for wildlife researchers. Can you identify the animals from photos taken in Asia's mountain forests?

Think you know giant pandas? Take this quiz and see how your panda knowledge stacks up!

Vostok is a new face at the Zoo's Great Cats exhibit. Explore how animal care staff helped him adjust to his new home.

Primate staff are mourning the loss of Kyle, a 28-year-old male Bornean orangutan who died Jan. 10.