In the last few decades, it has become increasingly evident that conservation, our own health, and the health of wild and domestic animals are all inextricably linked. A single pathogen can wipe out the last populations of an endangered species and, in turn, threaten the stability of local human populations. Thus there is an urgent need to simultaneously address the health of people and animals, recognizing that disease poses challenges to both conservation of the planet's biodiversity and efforts to improve the quality of human life.

Our Goal

Ensure the health of wildlife species around the globe and in our New York zoological parks.

How will we get there?

Since our founding in 1895, WCS has harnessed our veterinary expertise to save wildlife and wild places around the globe. From intensively caring for endangered animals at our New York City zoos and aquarium, to aiding rural communities with livestock health, to monitoring the health status of elusive gorillas in the wild, WCS veterinarians, epidemiologists, and other health science professionals collectively represent an unparalleled constellation of capabilities.

Together, we employ three primary strategies:

• Build local capacity to care for and protect the health of wildlife worldwide.
• Gather and applying critically needed information to protect the health of wildlife, people, and domestic animals, all as underpinned by environmental stewardship.
• Promote policies, guidelines, and best practices to ensure a healthy planet.