Partners in Conservation
Learn about the Zoo’s financial commitment to holistic conservation efforts in Central Africa.
As the season of giving approaches, we are reminded of the incredible power of generosity.
At the Columbus Zoo, fulfilling our Wild Wishes—caring for animals, leading global conservation, and inspiring future conservationists—wouldn’t be possible without dedicated donors like you.
Meet Strawberry.
In June 2021, a young moose calf was found wandering alone in a neighborhood in Anchorage, Alaska.
Without her mother, the young calf faced an uncertain future. Named Strawberry after the street where she was found, the calf was cared for at the Alaska Zoo, but her journey was far from over. Plans were made for a 3,900-mile journey to her new home at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
For Nikki Smith, Curator of the North America Trek Region, Strawberry’s arrival was more than welcoming a new animal—it was about powerful partnerships giving a vulnerable calf a second chance. With over 22 years of dedication, Nikki has cared for animals like Strawberry while inspiring others to embrace wildlife conservation. In 2022, her team welcomed three more orphaned calves, reaffirming her belief that with dedication, collaboration, and heart, every animal can have a chance to thrive.
The Columbus Zoo isn’t just caring for animals within our gates—we’re driving conservation efforts on a global scale.
Whether providing life-saving care for orphaned species in North America like Nikki, working to restore endangered species in the wild, or funding research to protect vulnerable ecosystems, our reach extends far beyond Central Ohio. Our Zoo Fund directly supports these lifesaving conservation efforts.
Every day is an opportunity to make a difference for animals like Strawberry at the Columbus Zoo.
We look to our donors to help fulfill our Wild Wishes: empowering our staff to participate in wildlife rescues, build international partnerships, and pioneer solutions to address challenges like habitat loss and climate change. With your support, we can protect species like the moose—both at the Zoo and in their natural habitats.
For keepers like Nikki, it’s a labor of love that goes beyond basic care—building trust, enriching lives, and ensuring wellbeing. Nikki doesn’t just serve meals or clean; she’s constantly improving habitats to benefit both animals and guests, sparking wonder and empathy. Her mission is personal: to inspire others to care just as much. Seeing guests connect with Strawberry’s story, Nikki knows she’s helping create future conservationists.
How YOU Can Help
Your support is the heart behind stories like Strawberry’s. Because of you, our team has the resources, expertise, and tools needed to provide exceptional care, create meaningful connections, and lead conservation efforts on a global scale. Every gift helps us invest in programs that enrich lives – both animal and human – and ensure every animal has the chance to thrive.
With your contribution to the Zoo Fund, your gift supports essential programs like habitat improvements, specialized care routines, and the global conservation initiatives that touch lives across the world.
One of Nikki’s most meaningful roles is connecting with guests, transforming each conversation into an opportunity to inspire wildlife advocates. Whether answering questions or sharing stories like Strawberry’s second chance at life, Nikki's passion shines through. She hopes that even the smallest conversation sparks action in someone’s life to protect the natural world.
Inspiring the next generation of conservationists starts here.
Each guest experience is designed to foster a deeper connection to nature—whether through behind-the-scenes encounters, educational programs, or simply the joy of seeing wildlife up close. Your gift to the Zoo Fund helps us inspire a lifelong appreciation of wildlife for millions of visitors every year. Your support ensures Nikki and others can create unforgettable moments, expand education programs, and engage our community in ways that cultivate a love and responsibility for the natural world.
Our Wild Wish is that you’ll join us in making a lasting impact. Your gift—no matter the size—helps us continue our mission of saving wildlife and empowering the people who make it all possible.
