Animals and Ecosystems

Explore Science & Nature

The Smithsonian recognizes the need for basic research, species and habitat protection, and conservation in order to safeguard Earth's biodiversity. Research, collaborations, and public outreach initiatives contribute to scientific knowledge and public awareness, and play a role in protecting habitats and promoting sustainable practices. Smithsonian research happens across the globe and at our research centers based at the Natural Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

How We Save Species

The Smithsonian is dedicated to advancing the science of species conservation. We conduct research on endangered species, study their behavior and ecology, and develop innovative conservation techniques. We also operate extensive captive breeding programs to restore endangered populations and conduct reintroduction efforts to establish species back into the wild.

An American bison standing and looking at the camera.

Smithsonian Story

Six Animals the Smithsonian Has Helped Save from Extinction

Conservation efforts help bring endangered species back from the brink.

Sidedoor Podcast

The Sex Lives of Giant Pandas

With a little help from science, the once-endangered giant panda is making a comeback.

A brown and red tropical frog, Atelopus certus.

Frog Fertility Clinic

Artificial fertilization could be the key to rescuing Panama’s endangered frogs from extinction.

Sidedoor Podcast

Birds, Birds, Birds!

Three billion birds have gone missing since 1970. In this episode, we go bird-spotting with Pete Marra, and learn what each of us can do to bring birds back.

Smithsonian Story

Advancing Coral Conservation

From new coral species, to protecting reefs from a pandemic, the Smithsonian helps to conserve coral.

Sidedoor Podcast

The Wild Orchid Mystery

Scientists at the Smithsonian are working to protect orchids and their habitats, but first they need solve a surprisingly difficult problem: how to grow one.

Sidedoor Podcast

The Silence of the Frogs

Travel to the Panamanian jungle to learn how the Smithsonian is helping some endangered frogs avoid extinction.

Sidedoor Podcast

Don’t Call Me Extinct

Erased from the wild for three decades, the scimitar-horned oryx are back in the Central African country of Chad.

In the Water

Smithsonian researchers study the ocean and freshwater ecosystems around the world. Using collections, SCUBA, submersibles, and more we ask questions about marine biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, coral reefs, the deep sea, and the impact of climate change.

An orange coral head sits in center of underwater image. Light streams in above from the ocean's surface.

National Museum of Natural History

Ocean Portal

Join the Smithsonian Ocean Portal website in exploring the ocean and its life.

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Ecosystems on the Edge

Discover the challenges life faces on the coasts—and what scientists and we can do to save them.

White and orange sub with large glass window underwater.

Deep Reef Ecosystems

Learn what Smithsonian marine scientists are discovering as they visit deep reefs to study and monitor these ecosystems.

view of sun from under the ocean surface

Smithsonian Science Education Center

Ocean! Community Research Guide

Themes lead youth to discover their interconnectedness with the ocean and understand complex ocean systems.

On the Land

The Smithsonian conducts a wide range of land-based research through its various research centers and programs. This research contributes to our understanding of terrestrial ecosystems, informs conservation efforts, and supports sustainable land management practices.

Smithsonian Story

Five Unexpected Facts about Forests

Learn about the role forests play in human and ecosystem health.

Soil Science

STRI’s soil scientists are getting closer to understanding one of the most important factors driving the nature of tropical tree communities.

Two large bison stand in a field of yellow wildflowers.

Restoring America's Prairie

Follow ecologists into the field as they attempt to answer big conservation questions in an even bigger place: the American prairie.

A group of people stand in a green field and look out of binoculars.

Virginia Working Landscapes

Guides and quick-reference resources for learning about creating wildlife habitat, controlling invasive species, and promoting native biodiversity.

Two swift foxes sit in the middle of green grass.

Smithsonian Story

Four Facts about Grasslands

Learn about the grasses that cover around 40 percent of the Earth’s landmass.

A woman in a green shirt crouches amidst tall green grass surrounded by silver instruments.

Meet a Scientist

A Glimpse into the Future via a Marsh

Experiments on marshes of the Chesapeake Bay help us understand the impacts of a warmer future.

What Can I Do?

Protecting species and ecosystems is a collective effort, and every action counts. By engaging with the Smithsonian and taking steps to protect species and promote habitat conservation, you can play a role in preserving biodiversity and contributing to a sustainable future.