Audubon and Hancock Whitney Zoo: A Year of Conservation and Community Engagement in 2025

The Audubon Institute and the Hancock Whitney Zoo in New Orleans continued their dedication to wildlife conservation and public education throughout 2025. A notable event was the highly anticipated return of mountain zebras to the Audubon Zoo. This reintroduction was a key step in the ongoing transformation of the African Savanna exhibit, designed to create a more authentic and enriching environment for the animals while providing visitors with a more immersive experience. The zebras joined the existing giraffe population, further enhancing the dynamic of this popular area of the zoo.
In 2025, the Audubon Institute maintained its strong focus on crucial conservation endeavors, particularly addressing the threats faced by African zebra populations due to habitat destruction and human impact. The zoo’s educational programs and various events played a significant role in increasing public awareness about these pressing issues and the broader importance of biodiversity conservation.
The annual Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do, celebrating its 47th year on May 2nd, once again served as a vital fundraising platform for the Audubon Institute’s conservation initiatives. This well-regarded gala brought the community together for an evening of fine dining from local establishments, live music, and a fundraising auction. The proceeds from this event contributed to the impressive sum of over $40 million raised since its inception, directly supporting the zoo and its global conservation projects. Earlier in the year, on April 25th, the 36th annual Zoo-To-Do for Kids, presented by Children’s Hospital New Orleans, provided a fun and educational experience for younger guests, with the return of the zebras being a central highlight.
Through these activities and ongoing efforts in 2025, the Audubon Institute and the Hancock Whitney Zoo reaffirmed their importance as valuable community resources, cultivating a deeper understanding of the natural world and actively participating in the protection of vulnerable species.
More photos from this event click -> HERE