Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Through the passion of our team, the Los Angeles Zoo is leading the way in saving wildlife and connecting Angelenos to the natural world by providing exemplary animal care, delivering distinctive and diverse learning opportunities, and creating unforgettable experiences.

The City of Los Angeles owns the Zoo, its land and facilities, and the animals. Animal care, grounds maintenance, construction, learning and engagement, public information, and administrative staff are City employees. The Mayor of the City of Los Angeles is Karen Bass, who began her first term in 2022. Located within the 4th City Council District, the Zoo is represented by Councilmember Nithya Raman. Denise M. Verret was appointed by Mayor Eric Garcetti as CEO and Zoo Director in July 2019.

The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) was created in 1963 as a private, nonprofit fundraising organization to support the Zoo. Today, GLAZA provides support through fundraising, membership, marketing, and public relations, organizing special events and travel programs, producing award-winning publications, coordinating one of the largest zoo volunteer programs in the country, and supporting community relations.