Al Ain, May 17 (IANS/WAM): The Al Ain zoo has been accepted as a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) after the UAE zoo met the highest international standards of animal care and for being a major contributor to wildlife conservation.

The decision was announced after EAZA representatives inspected all areas of the zoo's operation, including animal health, animal welfare, safety and exhibit design.

Al Ain zoo's efforts regarding education, research, conservation and enhancing visitor experience were also reviewed.

The EAZA, established in 1992, currently has 345 members in 41 countries. Its mission is to facilitate cooperation within the zoo and aquarium community to reach goals related to education, research and conservation.

Al Ain zoo is home to almost 4,000 animals and is also active in efforts to prevent the extinction of many of these. The zoo has re-introduced zoo-born Arabian Oryx back into the wild, and has developed a research and conservation project for the Arabian sand cat, and breeding programmes for the Addax.