How the National Zoo feeds 2,000 animals with specialized, natural diets every day
In short: Managing the nutritional needs of 400 species requires a massive operation. Discover how the Smithsonian's National Zoo uses a dedicated team and a half-acre commissary to ensure every animal receives a custom diet that promotes natural feeding behaviors.
The Smithsonian's National Zoo maintains a complex feeding operation for 2,000 animals across 400 species. Led by head nutritionist Mike Maslanka, a 13-person team designs diets that satisfy both biological requirements and natural instincts. The facility features a half-acre commissary, one of the largest of its kind globally.
The zoo is distinguished by its specialized staffing and unique supply chain. While only 11 of the 220 Association of Zoos and Aquariums members employ dedicated nutritionists, the National Zoo has two. Furthermore, it is the only zoo that produces its own hay, which is grown at the CRC.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Feeding the Animals at the Smithsonian's National Zoo
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