Birds play a crucial role in ecosystems, acting as pollinators, seed dispersers, and natural pest controllers. They help maintain the balance of plant and animal life, contributing to biodiversity and the health of our environment. However, birds today face several challenges. Habitat loss due to urbanization, deforestation, and climate change threatens their survival. Many birds also collide with glass windows and high-rise buildings, often leading to injury or death. Light pollution disrupts migratory patterns, causing disorientation and increasing vulnerability. To address these issues, various conservation efforts are underway globally, including the creation of bird-friendly habitats, building design modifications to prevent collisions, and reducing light pollution through policies and awareness campaigns. These efforts are critical in ensuring birds continue to thrive and fulfill their essential roles in nature.
Our Conservation Commitment:
The Topeka Zoo is dedicated to supporting bird conservation in various meaningful ways.
Bird-Friendly Windows
We help make environments safer for birds by using window decals to alert them to glass, preventing collisions with buildings.
Wildflower Oasis
We also plant wildflowers to provide vital nectar for pollinators and seed resources for birds.
Habitat Renewal
Our commitment extends to habitat restoration, ensuring that birds have the spaces they need to thrive.
Swan Reintroduction Initiatives
We actively participate in programs like the swan reintroduction, helping restore populations when needed.
Historically, the Topeka Zoo has also played a key role in bringing the golden eagle back to its native range, including Kansas, contributing to the recovery of this majestic species.
Trumpeter Swan Restoration & Management
The Trumpeter Swan Society’s Restoration and Management Program has been instrumental in recovering trumpeter swan populations across North America. Since the 1980s, the program has focused on habitat restoration, monitoring, and public education to address threats like hunting and habitat loss. As a result, swan numbers have significantly increased in several regions. The Topeka Zoo continues to work with the Society to support these efforts and ensure a sustainable future for this iconic species.
SAFE Program
North American Songbird
The vision of SAFE North American Songbird is North American songbirds thriving throughout their annual life cycles due, in part, to the contributions of zoos, aquariums, and their guests, taking collaborative action to reduce threats.
SAFE Program
Andean highland flamingo
SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction) Andean Highland Flamingo supports the recovery and conservation of Andean, Chilean, and Puna (James’s) flamingos through research, public engagement, targeted training, community outreach, and education. AZA members work with Chilean partners to support activities outlined in the country’s Andean highland flamingo conservation plan, fill research gaps, and assist with the identification, prioritization, and designation of critical flamingo habitat in Chile’s northern Andean highlands.
Join the Fight to Save Endangered Species
Together, we can make a difference. By supporting Topeka Zoo’s initiatives, you’re helping protect vulnerable species, restore habitats, and ensure a future where wildlife can thrive. Join us in taking action today!