Wednesday, March 29, 2023
(Virginia Beach, VA) – The Virginia Aquarium was granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquarium’s (AZA) independent Accreditation Commission on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Accreditation is granted after a rigorous application and inspection process, which occurs every five years. The Virginia Aquarium was first accredited by AZA in 2007, and has consistently earned accreditation since that time.
Accreditation by AZA indicates that the Virginia Aquarium is meeting high standards for animal welfare, care, and management. The detailed accreditation questionnaire encompasses all areas of the aquarium’s operation, including animal care, veterinary services, facility operations and maintenance, staff training, and safety standards. During a multi-day inspection, industry leaders, including a veterinarian, explored all areas of the Virginia Aquarium, examined five years’ worth of records, and evaluated the welfare of the animals. Their findings were provided to the Accreditation Commission to assist with the determination.
“Being accredited by AZA is critical to the Virginia Aquarium,” said Cynthia Whitbred-Spanoulis, Director of the Virginia Aquarium. “It means that we are meeting the high standards of animal welfare, and that we are continually improving as the AZA standards are frequently changed. Being accredited means that the Virginia Aquarium is in the top echelon of zoos and aquariums.” According to the AZA , of more than 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the USDA, less than 10% are accredited (https://www.aza.org/accred-faq ).
The Virginia Aquarium is also accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums, a licensed USDA exhibitor , and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums .
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium's mission is to inspire conservation of the marine environment through education, research, and sustainable practices. It is located at 717 General Booth Boulevard, just south of Rudee Inlet in Virginia Beach. Visit www.VirginiaAquarium.com for more information.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, supports the work of the Virginia Aquarium. The Foundation procures and maintains the Aquarium's exhibits, including the animals and habitats. It is also responsible for annual and capital fundraising, administration and funding for the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program, conservation and scientific research efforts, and the Aquarium's mission-related education programs. You can be a part of our mission by making a tax-deductible donation to support our programming.
