Wildlife Conservation Society

Wildlife_Conservation_Society_logo_(since_2015)

File:Andy's Animal Alphabet.ogv Wildlife Conservation Society

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to the conservation of the world's largest wild places in 14 priority regions, home to more than 50% of the world's biodiversity. Founded in 1895 as the New York Zoological Society, the WCS has been at the forefront of the global conservation movement for over a century.

History

The WCS was established in 1895 with the mission to advance wildlife conservation, promote the study of zoology, and create a first-class zoo. The organization was instrumental in the creation of the Bronx Zoo, which opened in 1899. Over the years, the WCS expanded its focus from managing zoos and aquariums to conducting field research and conservation projects around the world.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the WCS is to save wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature. The organization aims to protect 25% of the world's biodiversity by focusing on 14 priority regions, including the Amazon Rainforest, the Congo Basin, and the Coral Triangle.

Key Programs

The WCS operates a variety of programs aimed at wildlife conservation, including:

• Field Conservation Programs: Conducting research and implementing conservation strategies in key regions around the world.
• Zoos and Aquariums: Managing five wildlife parks in New York City, including the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and New York Aquarium.
• Education Programs: Offering educational programs and resources to inspire the next generation of conservationists.
• Policy and Advocacy: Working with governments, communities, and other stakeholders to promote policies that support wildlife conservation.

Achievements

The WCS has made significant contributions to wildlife conservation, including:

• The discovery of new species and the protection of endangered species such as the snow leopard, Asian elephant, and gorilla.
• The establishment of protected areas and national parks in countries around the world.
• The development of innovative conservation strategies and tools, such as the use of satellite tracking to monitor wildlife movements.

Challenges

Despite its successes, the WCS faces numerous challenges in its conservation efforts, including:

• Habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities such as deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization.
• Climate change, which poses a significant threat to wildlife and ecosystems.
• Poaching and illegal wildlife trade, which continue to drive many species towards extinction.

Related Pages

• Conservation biology
• Endangered species
• Habitat conservation
• Biodiversity
• Environmental protection
• Sustainable development

See Also

• World Wildlife Fund
• International Union for Conservation of Nature
• Conservation International
• The Nature Conservancy