Overview

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is an international non-profit conservation organisation established on 26 April 1895 as the New York Zoological Society. Headquartered in New York City, it works to protect wildlife, habitats and ecosystems through scientific research, conservation programmes and education.

Its mission is to conserve wildlife and wild places worldwide, combining field-based research with practical conservation measures and public engagement.

Mission and focus areas

WCS focuses on biodiversity conservation, protected areas, climate change, wildlife trafficking, ecosystem restoration and the relationships between human, animal and environmental health. Its activities span terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, with particular attention to ecologically important landscapes and seascapes.

Its sustainable finance work includes conservation finance, biodiversity assessments, ecosystem services valuation, carbon credits and environmental safeguards. These activities support investors and businesses in assessing nature-related risks, financing conservation and incorporating environmental considerations into decision-making.

Structure and governance

WCS operates as a US tax-exempt charitable organisation governed by a Board of Trustees, chaired by Alejandro Santo Domingo. Its President and Chief Executive Officer is Adam F. Falk, supported by executive leadership responsible for global conservation, wildlife parks, finance and organisational operations.

Its work is organised through international conservation programmes and five wildlife facilities in New York City. WCS collaborates with governments, Indigenous Peoples, local communities, research institutions and non-governmental organisations across more than 50 countries.

Programs and offerings

WCS manages conservation programmes addressing species protection, habitat management, marine conservation and wildlife health. It also operates the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo and New York Aquarium, providing conservation education and scientific research.

Its publications include scientific studies, conservation assessments, policy guidance and annual impact reports. Specialist resources address biodiversity monitoring, protected-area management, conservation finance and environmental risk assessment.

For finance and sustainability practitioners, WCS provides technical expertise in biodiversity assessment, ecosystem valuation, carbon financing and nature-related due diligence. Its research supports investment decisions, corporate sustainability strategies and conservation funding mechanisms.

Our Mission

WCS saves wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature.