The Denver Zoo has earned a new badge of honor it can display.

American Humane announced Tuesday the Denver Zoo earned the American Humane Certified seal and another 5-year certification for demonstrating outstanding welfare and treatment of the animals in the zoo’s care.

The Zoo passed a rigorous independent assessment joining a growing number of leading zoological institutions that have earned the American Humane Certified designation, according to the organization. The certification closely follows the Zoo’s accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in 2023.

“We believe all animals, including those being cared for in our zoos, aquariums and conservation parks, are entitled to humane treatment,” Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Humane president and CEO, said in a news release. “The Humane Certified seal lets zoo and aquarium visitors rest easy in the knowledge that their favorite animals are getting good care and that endangered species we all want to preserve will exist for generations to come.”

After examinations by a team of independent experts, Denver Zoo once again “joined an exclusive group of leading organizations” that proudly display the seal, the release states. The Humane Certified logo, along with its accreditation by the AZA assures staff, volunteers, members and guests that the Zoo is meeting the highest standards of animal care and are committed to the wellbeing of all of its 3,000+ animal residents, according to Zoo officials.

“From our Asian elephants to the smallest frogs and fish, we’re fully committed to ensuring that all of our more than 3,000 animals are able to live their best lives at Denver Zoo,” Brian Aucone, senior vice president for Life Sciences at Denver Zoo said. “This certification and our AZA accreditation further validates our animal care and health programs and honors our dedicated staff who commit their lives to our animals’ wellbeing and happiness.”

The American Humane Certified program is the world’s first certification program dedicated solely to the welfare of animals in zoological institutions, the agency said.

“The program enforces rigorous, science-based and comprehensive criteria for animal welfare, developed by an independent scientific advisory committee comprised of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, animal behavior and animal ethics,” the agency said. “It exhaustively verifies the many dimensions of animal welfare, including excellent health and housing; positive social interactions within groups of animals; and safe and stimulating environments.”

For more information about American Humane visit humaneconservation.org.