Over 2400 taxa of terrestrial invertebrates are regarded as of conservation concern, and more are added yearly. In addition, hundreds of plants listed as threatened or endangered have never had their pollinators identified (Buchmann and Nabhan, 1996).
Many AZA zoos have developed programs with endangered invertebrates, including captive rearing and reintroductions, as well as habitat restoration. As the Taxon Advisory Group, TITAG coordinates these efforts.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) examine the sustainability and conservation needs of entire taxa, and develop recommendations for population management and conservation. TITAG coordinates, facilitates, and reviews progress toward goals for animal management and conservation programs. TITAG coordinates with regional and international conservation programs to lead, develop, oversee, promote, evaluate, and support conservation and scientific initiatives for invertebrate animals.
AZA SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) Program
AZA SAFE focuses the collective expertise within AZA accredited zoos and aquariums to save species and make their audiences aware of their plight.
- North American Monarch SAFE (Endangered (IUCN); USFW ruling expected 12/2024)
- Prairie Butterfly/Poweshiek skipperling (Critically Endangered (IUCN); Endangered (USFWS))
- American Burying Beetle (Endangered (IUCN); Threatened (USFWS); Endangered (State))
AZA SWARM (Safety Web for Arthropod Reproduction and Management)
Swarm is focused on maintaining sustainable populations for invertebrate programs and displays. Species selection is primarily driven by facility interest. Learn More about SWARM
TITAG Small Grants Program
If your facility is part of an AZA SAFE program, you can apply for a small grant of up to $1000.
Learn more about the Small Grants Program.
Zoos with Endangered Invertebrate Programs:
We are in the process of updating this information! Check back in 2026
Archival Information (2006)
- Invertebrate Captive Rearing and Reintroductions
- Butterfly Conservation Programs and Initiatives
- Invertebrate Research Initiatives
- Invertebrate Habitat Restoration Efforts
- Invertebrate Surveys and Monitoring Projects
- Invertebrate Conservation Education Initiative
- Institutions Supporting Invertebrate Conservation