How it Works

The SSP Master Plan

The Studbook

Conservation Action

List of SSP Species found in the Minnesota Zoo Collection

AZA Species Survival Plan©

The mission of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums's (AZA's) Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program is to help insure the survival of wildlife species.

What is an SSP?

The Species Survival Plan, or SSP, began in 1981 as a cooperative population management and conservation program for selected species at North American zoos and aquariums. Each SSP manages the breeding of a species to maintain a healthy, self-sustaining captive population, both genetically diverse and demographically stable. SSPs include other conservation activities including research, education, reintroduction, and field projects. Currently, there are 90 SSPs covering 119 species.