Paws and Reflect: Zoo Atlanta's Purr-suit of Credibility Open Access

Abstract

This interdisciplinary thesis investigates the pursuit of institutional legitimacy within the American zoo and aquarium sector. Using Zoo Atlanta as a primary case study, the research evaluates how accredited institutions navigate a hybrid identity as sites of both public spectacle and scientific stewardship. While federal law establishes a regulatory baseline, it fails to mandate conservation outcomes expected by contemporary stakeholders ranging from visitors to senior-level administrators. Consequently, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) functions as a proactive, member-based umbrella organization that distinguishes conservation zoos from roadside attractions. Through a qualitative methodology involving interviews with Zoo Atlanta’s senior leadership, four themes emerged prerequisites for Zoo Atlanta’s pursuit of public trust: radical transparency, prestige within AZA, facilitating connections between humans and wildlife, and signature conservation partnerships. By situating Zoo Atlanta’s transition from a national disgrace to a conservation champion within the Zoo Spheres of Influence model, this project reveals how these four principles — with transparency at the forefront — facilitate civic engagement and global conservation impact in an era demanding urgent conservation action.

Table of Contents

Introduction............................................................................1

A Different Breed: The Zoo Spheres of Influence, Federal Law, & A True “Conservation Zoo”....16

The Mane Attraction: A Wild Case Study of Zoo Atlanta…………………………………...29

History of Zoo Atlanta…………………………………………………………………...30

Transparency……………………………………………………………………………..35

Connecting Visitors With Wildlife……………………………………………………….40

Visibility Within the AZA………………………………………………………………..42

Signature Conservation Partnerships…………………………………………………….47

No Lion — Examining Zoo Atlanta’s Weak Spots………………………………………50

Conclusion: A Whale of a Tale…………………………………………………………………52

Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………………….57

About this Honors Thesis

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School	Emory College
Department	American Studies
Degree	B.A.
Submission	Honors Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Environmental Studies American Studies History, Modern
Keyword	zoo transparency Atlanta conservation
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Peter Wakefield, Emory University
Committee Members	Edward Queen, Emory University Jason Ward, Emory University

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