What We Do
The Wilder Institute works across Canada and around the world to safeguard wildlife and the ecosystems we all depend on. We bring together science, Indigenous and local knowledge, and community partnerships to create conservation solutions that work for wildlife and people.
Applied Conservation Programs
We protect and recover at-risk species through hands-on conservation programs that restore habitats and strengthen ecosystems. From local landscapes to international initiatives, our work is focused on helping wildlife recover and communities thrive alongside them.
Science & Research
Our researchers study biodiversity changes, species recovery, and ecosystem health, publishing their findings to help shape conservation practices around the world. This work is strengthened by integrating lived experiences into cutting-edge scientific methods.
Community Collaboration
Conservation works best when it works alongside people. We partner with Indigenous communities, land stewards, governments, and local organizations to create solutions rooted in shared knowledge and shared responsibility. This collaboration ensures conservation outcomes are practical, inclusive, and made to last.
Why It Matters
Species are under pressure and ecosystems are changing in ways that affect both people and wildlife. Inclusive conservation efforts weave together Indigenous and local knowledge, scientific expertise, and wisdom, because the most effective solutions come from the people who know the land and its species best. It’s an essential part of making a measurable impact for species recovery and ecosystems that connect us all.
Our Ecosystem
Conservation happens in many places — in the field across landscapes and in everyday moments of connection between people and wildlife.
Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo
Wildlife experiences with real-world impact
When you experience extraordinary animals up close at the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo, you’re also helping support conservation efforts that protect species in Canada and around the world. Every visit contributes to species recovery programs, research, and habitat protection rooted in a strong Alberta conservation legacy.
Archibald Biodiversity Centre
Supporting species recovery behind the scenes
At the Wilder Institute’s Archibald Biodiversity Centre, scientists and animal care experts work to help endangered species recover through conservation breeding, research, and reintroduction. Home to species like Vancouver Island marmots, burrowing owls, and whooping cranes, the centre helps give wildlife a stronger chance of survival while advancing knowledge that supports species recovery around the world.
Centre for Species Survival
Advancing solutions for species recovery
The first of its kind in Canada, Wilder Institute’s Centre for Species Survival (CSS) Human Dimensions integrates science, Indigenous knowledge, and community perspectives to support healthy wildlife populations while strengthening human livelihoods. As part of a global network addressing urgent conservation challenges, this work helps strengthen solutions for wildlife, ecosystems, and the communities connected to them.
Real Impact, Measurable Results
For 40 years, the Wilder Institute has delivered measurable impact where it matters most, from species recovery to ecosystem restoration.
27
Species supported in Canada and around the world
15
conservation programs
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Of Countries / Regions
How We Work
We believe conservation efforts succeed when many ways of knowing shape our solutions.
Science-based Approach
We use rigorous science combined with Indigenous knowledge to guide effective conservation decisions.
Partnerships
We work with people who know the land and have the ability to shape its future, collaborating with local communities, governments, and NGOs.
Action-oriented Conservation
We focus on building conservation solutions that deliver real results for wildlife, people, and ecosystems.
Join us in creating One Wild Future
Safeguarding wildlife means protecting the world we all share.