Proud to be AZA for over 25 years

February 13, 2019

In 2018, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) granted Happy Hollow Park & Zoo a Quarter Century Award, celebrating 25 years of continuous accreditation. Happy Hollow is owned and operated by the City of San Jose’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services and has been an accredited AZA member since 1984. Out of the 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the USDA across the country, less than 10 percent are AZA-accredited.

“We are proud to be an AZA-accredited facility because it demonstrates our commitment to exceptional animal care and welfare, as well as providing meaningful and educational experiences for visitors.”

– Kevin Hertell, Zoo Manager

How often does accreditation occur?

Happy Hollow must pass a rigorous accreditation process every five years to reinstate accreditation. This ensures that the facility and staff continue to meet evolving guidelines for animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety.

“AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums provide the public with essential connections to nature,”

– Amy Pizarro, Executive Director of Happy Hollow Foundation.

Why get accredited?

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are leaders in the protection of endangered species. Happy Hollow participates in Species Survival Plan programs to ensure long-term planning for conservation breeding, habitat preservation, field conservation and supportive research to ensure survival for many of the planet’s threatened and endangered species.

About AZA accreditation
The AZA has been the primary accrediting body for zoos and aquariums for over 40 years. The
accreditation process begins with a detailed application, followed by a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation, including animal care and welfare; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and more. The AZA then holds a formal hearing to interview a zoo’s top officials, after which accreditation is granted, deferred, or denied. If an institution is denied, they may reapply after one year. Happy Hollow will begin a new accreditation application in 2020, and will undergo evaluation in 2021.