The Detroit Zoo is actively involved in several conservation projects, benefitting both local and distant communities. Choose from the links on the left to find out more about the projects and how you can help or get involved!

2008 Year of the Frog
Things are hopping at the Detroit Zoo in celebration of all things amphibian as part of the global conservation community’s designation of 2008 as “Year of the Frog.”  The cooperative campaign focuses attention on endangered amphibians and the critical work being done by zoos and aquariums to save them.

The Detroit Zoo is supporting the global effort by continuing to develop partnerships and husbandry protocols necessary to maintain endangered amphibian species in captivity.  In addition, the Zoo has launched a yearlong public awareness campaign featuring special events, fundraising activities, educational opportunities and community outreach efforts.

The Karner Blue Butterfly Conservation is coordinated by Laura Palombi, Curator of Invertebrates. Thanks to Laura and a dedicated team of volunteers, habitats for these butterflies are being re-created in Southern Michigan.




The Adopt-A-School Program accepts donations to supply the children in the rural communities along the Amazon River with school supplies that support rainforest conservation. Each spring, a group of volunteers travels to the Peruvian Rainforest to distribute the supplies to the schools.