Zoos on a Mission, Saving Species from Extinction

Species of wildlife are facing global extinction on a massive scale, with about 21% of mammal species, about 12% of bird species and about 33% of all amphibian species under threat. So says Elizabeth Whealy, president and CEO of the Great Plains Zoo, who believes zoos are in a unique position to make a difference. Whealy addressed the Rotary Club of Downtown Sioux Falls Monday, Aug. 8, and discussed how the Great Plains Zoo is banding together with other zoos in an aggressive mission to save endangered species through conservation breeding, habitat preservation, community development, public education and research.