National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute Blog

National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Smithsonian Voices

Why Firefighters Burned Down an Old Building on the National Zoo’s Science Campus

When faced with the challenge of an aging facility, staff at the Zoo's science campus found a creative solution to its closure.

Mike Bock | May 8, 2026

Linh Mai Inspires a New Era for the Zoo’s Elephant Cam

With the return of the Zoo’s Elephant Cam, a group of trained volunteers are helping chronicle the daily lives of Asian elephants.

Mike Bock | April 27, 2026

Inside a Komodo Dragon Vet Exam at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Learn how Zoo veterinarians deliver expert care for an apex island predator.

Mike Bock | April 9, 2026

9 Fascinating Facts About North America’s Master Builder, the Beaver

These facts will make you a beaver believer.

Mike Bock | April 3, 2026

Flirting Like a Panda: Spring Sparks for Bao Li and Qing Bao at the National Zoo

A sure sign of spring is when giant pandas show interest in one another. Watch how Bao Li and Qing Bao "flirt" in this update!

Laurie Thompson and Mariel Lally | April 1, 2026

To Help Save Wildlife, Ecologists Learn A.I. Skills at the National Zoo’s Science Campus

In a unique class hosted at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, early-career ecologists learned to apply emerging technologies to power conservation breakthroughs.

Mike Bock | March 4, 2026

Hope Returns to Panama’s Forests With the Rediscovery of Four Missing Frog Species

Smithsonian researcher Brian Gratwicke and colleagues describe how acoustic technology aided the remarkable rediscovery of four amphibian populations thought to have vanished from Panama’s mountain forests.

Brian Gratwicke | February 10, 2026

See How the Animals Enjoyed a Snowy Week at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

While the Zoo was closed, staff members captured some rare scenes of the animals experiencing the falling snow.

Mike Bock | January 28, 2026

Sloth Bear Den PTZ (1_5_2026 3_57_08 PM EST) - cropped.png

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute Welcomes Two Sloth Bear Cubs

The tiny cubs, currently off-exhibit, are expected to debut in Spring 2026.

Mike Bock | January 6, 2026