ZooTampa at Lowry Park has unveiled a new brand extension, ZT Saves, that strengthens its commitment towards its mission as a leader in the conservation of wildlife in Florida and its contributions towards saving endangered species throughout the world.
“Our dedication to protect and preserve wildlife is at the forefront of everything we do,” stated Joe Couceiro president and CEO of ZooTampa, “the new ZT Saves brand extension provides a unifying identity for our many conservation initiatives. Through ZT Saves, members guests, partner organizations and industry professionals will better understand how they can join us and contribute to saving species in their backyard and on the other side of the world.”
As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), ZooTampa participates in 115 Species Survival Programs which help in the long-term sustainability of vulnerable, threatened and endangered species. The Zoo is also home to the state-of-the-art David A Straz Jr Manatee Critical Care Center which is one of only four centers of its kind that provides specialized care for injured and orphaned manatees. ZooTampa also works with state and federal partners to provide medical care to injured or orphaned Florida black bears and endangered Florida panthers in addition to the propagation of key species such as the Eastern indigo snake and Puerto Rican crested toad.
“Saving species in today’s world takes vision, innovation, and collaboration,” added the Zoo’s Vice President of Conservation and Research Lee Ann Rottman. “We are committed to creating strong and successful partnerships with conservation organizations and field programs positioned at the forefront of species survival.”
ZooTampa supports conservation partners engaged in field initiatives to protect species and their natural habitats. Partners include the International Rhino Foundation, VETPAW (African species), 96 Elephants, Bornean Orangutan Survival Foundation, Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (penguins). Okapi Conservation Project and the Pan Africa Sanctuary Alliance Keeper Training Program (primates).
“We are proud that our Zoo team consists of some of the most qualified zoological professionals in the world and that we have strong partnerships with local, state, federal and worldwide organizations known for excellence in animal care, conservation, and education,” added Couceiro “Through ZT Saves our goal is not just to be a leader in wildlife conservation initiatives, but to also inspire our guests and local Tampa Bay community to unite with us in saving species for generations to come.”
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