History of the National Zoo

In 1889, The Smithsonian National Zoo was founded and is located Northwest, Washington, D.C. In the early 1960s, the Zoo turned its attention to breeding and studying threatened and endangered species. In 1965, the zoological research division was created to study the reproduction,behavior, and ecology of zoo species, and learn how best to meet the needs of animals. The Smithsonian National Zoo's mission to provide leadership in animal care and animal education which are vital to maintain Earth's biological diversity.


http://nationalzoo.si.edu/AboutUs/History/default.cfm