Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Earns Zoological Association of America Accreditation
Park Meets and Exceeds Standards Set for Animal Care
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, the Thrill Capital of Northern California, in association with the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), one of the largest nonprofit wildlife organizations in the country, today announced that Six Flags Discovery Kingdom received ZAA accreditation for demonstrating the highest level of professional standards in animal welfare, safety, and ethics for the animals in their care. This includes dolphins, sea lions, alligators, sharks, giraffes, tigers and many other exotic wildlife species.
“I would like to congratulate Six Flags Discovery Kingdom on the successful completion of their ZAA facility accreditation assessment and audit!” said John Seyjagat, ZAA Executive Director. “Accreditation is an important part of ZAA’s facility membership program and exemplifies our organization’s commitment to excellence in animal husbandry, and facility operations. Six Flags continued support in promoting the responsible ownership, management and propagation of animals in their accredited facility has continued to meet the objectives of ZAA.
“As a unique combination animal and thrill park, it is incredibly special and important to receive this designation from ZAA.” said Dianne Cameron, Animal Care Director, at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. “This accreditation further establishes our commitment to providing the highest standards of care for the animals at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.”
ZAA is a non-profit membership-based accrediting organization dedicated to responsible wildlife management, conservation, and education. Member facilities range in size from 2 to 1,800 acres, each with 10 to 8,000 animals in their care and are composed of wildlife educators, rescue facilities, TV and film industry animal experts, wildlife preserves, small community zoos, large zoological facilities, and conservation organizations.
As a result of meeting and exceeding the high standards involved in receiving this accreditation, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is joining a select group of more than 60 leading member facilities to qualify for this prestigious designation.
The accreditation process through ZAA includes evaluation of animal care and husbandry, vet care, nutrition, enrichment, security and safety, facility aesthetics and maintenance, record keeping, and a thorough review of policies, procedures, and protocols. The intensive and comprehensive review process is widely recognized by federal, state, and local government agencies.
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom features more than 60 rides and attractions, including unique, up close and interactive animal experiences. For more information, visit: sixflags.com/discoverykingdom.