What Does Detroit Zoo Do?

Total employees350
HeadquartersRoyal Oak
Founded1928

The Detroit Zoo, located in Royal Oak, Michigan, is a renowned zoological park spanning 125 acres with naturalistic habitats for more than 2,000 animals representing 230 species. Operated by the non-profit Detroit Zoological Society (DZS), it is a leader in animal welfare, conservation, and sustainability. Key attractions include the Polk Penguin Conservation Center, the Arctic Ring of Life (home to polar bears and seals), the Australian Outback Adventure, and the National Amphibian Conservation Center. The Zoo is committed to education, providing engaging experiences that inspire visitors to connect with wildlife and act on behalf of the natural world.

Where Is Detroit Zoo's Headquarters?

HQ Function

Serves as the primary site for animal exhibition, conservation breeding programs, educational activities, visitor services, and administrative operations of the Detroit Zoological Society.

Notable Features:

The Polk Penguin Conservation Center (world's largest penguin facility), Arctic Ring of Life (one of North America's largest polar bear habitats), Horace H. Rackham Memorial Fountain, historic architecture mixed with modern, naturalistic habitats.

Work Culture:

A mission-driven environment focused on animal welfare, conservation, education, and guest experience. Staff are passionate about wildlife and environmental stewardship, often working in collaborative teams across animal care, veterinary services, education, guest relations, and operations.

HQ Significance:

The headquarters is the heart of one of Michigan's largest cultural attractions and a significant center for wildlife conservation research and captive breeding programs for endangered species.

Values Reflected in HQ: Commitment to animal welfare through spacious and naturalistic habitats, dedication to conservation science and sustainability (e.g., anaerobic digester), focus on education and community engagement evident in its design and programming.

Location:

While its physical operations are based in Michigan, the Detroit Zoo maintains a global presence through its extensive conservation programs. The Detroit Zoological Society actively participates in and funds field conservation projects across the globe, supporting research, habitat restoration, anti-poaching efforts, and species survival plans for animals in their native environments. This includes partnerships with international conservation organizations and fieldwork in various countries focusing on endangered species.

Street Address:

8450 W 10 Mile Rd

City:

Royal Oak

State/Province:

MI

Country:

USA

Where Else Does Detroit Zoo Operate Around the World?

Detroit, MI/USA

Address: Belle Isle Nature Center, 176 Lakeside Dr, Detroit, MI 48207

To provide educational experiences about local ecosystems and wildlife, particularly for the Detroit community, fostering an appreciation for regional biodiversity and conservation within an urban park setting.

Buying Intent Signals for Detroit Zoo

Highperformr Signals uncover buying intent and give you clear insights to target the right accounts at the right time — helping your sales, marketing, and GTM teams close more deals, faster.

Notable news
Hiring actively
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
Corporate Finance
*Example signal, not calculated in real time

Who's Leading Detroit Zoo? Meet the Executive Team

As of April 2025, Detroit Zoo' leadership includes:

Dr. Hayley W. Murphy - President and CEO
Scott Carter - Chief Life Sciences Officer
Stephanie Mills - Chief Development Officer
Robert Lessnau - Curator of Mammals
Gerry VanAcker - Chief Operating Officer

Who's Investing in Detroit Zoo?

Detroit Zoo has been backed by several prominent investors over the years, including:

Oakland County Taxpayers (via regional millage)
Macomb County Taxpayers (via regional millage)
Wayne County Taxpayers (via regional millage)
Private Foundations (e.g., The Kresge Foundation, Ford Motor Company Fund)
Corporate Sponsors (various local and national businesses)
Individual Donors and Members
State and Federal Grants (for specific projects)

What Leadership Changes Has Detroit Zoo Seen Recently?

Hire0
Exits0

As of late 2023/early 2024, there have been no major publicly announced C-level executive hires or exits directly at the Detroit Zoological Society within the immediate past 12 months. Leadership changes are typically announced via press releases on their website. Dr. Hayley Murphy's appointment as President and CEO was in late 2021.

What Technology (Tech Stack) Is Used byDetroit Zoo?

Discover the tools Detroit Zoo uses. Highperformr reveals the technologies powering your target accounts — helping your sales, marketing, and GTM teams prioritize smarter and close faster.

Detroit Zoo Email Formats and Examples

The Detroit Zoo, operated by the Detroit Zoological Society, commonly uses email formats typical for non-profit organizations. The most prevalent format appears to be the first initial followed by the last name.

flast@detroitzoo.org

Format

hmurphy@detroitzoo.org

Example

85%

Success rate

What's the Latest News About Detroit Zoo?

Detroit ZooFebruary 14, 2024

Detroit Zoo news title: Love is in the Air (and the Water!) at the Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo shared Valentine's Day themed enrichment for its animals, including heart-shaped treats and puzzles, highlighting their commitment to animal welfare and behavioral enrichment....more

ClickOnDetroit | WDIV Local 4January 24, 2024

Detroit Zoo news title: Detroit Zoo mourns loss of beloved polar bear Nuka

The Detroit Zoo announced the sad passing of Nuka, a 20-year-old male polar bear, due to complications from systemic infection. Nuka had been a resident since 2011 and was a favorite among visitors and staff....more

Detroit Free PressNovember 15, 2023

Detroit Zoo news title: Detroit Zoo's Wild Lights to illuminate holiday season: What to know

The Detroit Zoo prepared for its annual 'Wild Lights' holiday event, featuring millions of LED lights illuminating trees, buildings, and animal sculptures across the zoo grounds, offering a festive experience for families....more

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