The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) granted accreditation to The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk for another five years.
Brian Davis, president of the aquarium, said, “Accreditation is an arduous process that requires adherence and evaluation of strict animal-care guidelines to fulfill the high standards of a premier, accredited facility.”
AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe said, “The Maritime Aquarium demonstrates that it is committed to exemplary animal care and welfare, educational and inspiring guest experiences, and AZA”™s mission to conserve our world”™s wild animals and wild places.”
There are approximately 2,800 animal exhibitors in North America licensed by the USDA. Only 8 percent of them currently are accredited by the AZA.
“Continued accreditation gives us exciting momentum as we approach our 30th anniversary this summer and confirms that we continue to excel as an exceptional resource that staff, our guests and this community can celebrate,” Davis said. He is a member of AZA”™s board of directors.
