Pillar 1 - Supporting ex-situ animal populations
Hobart Zoo & Aquarium is committed to supporting ex-situ populations of managed species by exceeding animal welfare standards and creating exceptional, enriching habitats that promote natural behaviours.
We achieve this by:
-
Housing over 971 individual animals in environments designed to encourage species-specific behaviours and wellbeing
-
Contributing financially to global conservation partnerships, including Proyecto Tití, Zambian Carnivore Programme and Save the Tasmanian Devil Appeal
-
Participating in coordinated species management programs through ZAA, with 33% of our mammal species listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List
-
Continuing to expand our role in conservation by increasing species diversity and strengthening support for both native and exotic ex-situ populations
-
Entering the Tasmanian Devil coordinated breeding program
Case Study: $1.2 Million Commitment to the Tasmanian Devil
The Tasmanian devil is more than an animal in our care — it's a symbol of this island, and one under real pressure in the wild. That's why we've committed $1.2 million to Tasmania Wild, a purpose-built precinct designed to be the world's best Tasmanian devil exhibit anywhere.
This isn't a standard enclosure. Every element of Tasmania Wild has been designed around two things: education and enrichment.
We want visitors to see the devil the way it exists in situ — in habitat that reflects the real Tasmanian bush, not a bare pen — and to leave understanding why this animal matters and what threatens its future. And we want the devils themselves to have a life shaped by genuine behavioural enrichment, not just display.
It's the clearest expression of what this zoo stands for: conservation and education built on a foundation that also makes business sense, so we can keep doing this work for decades to come.
2030, Hobart Zoo & Aquarium will deliver exceptional, species-specific habitats that exceed ZAA standards, ensuring enriching environments for 100% of all individual animals.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Our Newsletter provides a deeper insight, including exciting news, full stories, a look behind the scenes, special offers, and more!