Over the past five years the zoo has contributed over $3.3 million to more than 70 projects in 30 countries. The zoo operates its own conservation program, donating money to outside programs as well as participating in their own conservation efforts. In total, the zoo owns 234 hectares (580 acres) of land, with 164.424 hectares (406.30 acres) dedicated to the zoo itself. The zoo also owns Zoombezi Bay which encompasses 9.187 hectares (22.70 acres). In addition the zoo owns an 18-hole golf course, known as the Safari Golf Club which encompasses 56.656 hectares (140 acres). The animal exhibits are divided into regions of the world, with the zoo currently operating eight such regions. The Columbus Zoo is home to more than 7,000 animals representing over 800 species and sees over 2.3 million visitors annually. It was also ranked number one best zoo in 2012 by Besties Readers Choice.

In 2009, it was named by the USA Travel Guide as the number one zoo in the United States. It has a worldwide reputation, largely attributable to the efforts and promotion of director emeritus Jack Hanna. The land lies along the eastern banks of the O'Shaughnessy Reservoir on the Scioto River, at the intersection of Riverside Drive and Powell Road. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a non-profit zoo located near Powell in Liberty Township, Delaware County, Ohio, United States, north of the city of Columbus. Interactive map outlining the zoo's boundaries North America, Heart of Africa, Asia Quest, Shores & Aquarium, Polar Frontier, Australia and the Islands, Adventure Cove and Congo Expedition

Columbus zoo accreditation