Work in Reproductive Science encompasses basic research on comparative reproductive systems as well as reproductive management, to enhance or control reproduction and to provide diagnostic testing and monitoring of reproductive status—for example, pregnancy or onset of puberty. Long-term reproductive management also includes cryopreservation of gametes and gonadal tissue from both males and females to extend the reproductive potential of animals into the future.

The two main areas of emphasis in Behavioral Science are reproduction and well-being. Research on parental care and mate choice, courtship and mating relate to reproduction, while studies that monitor sociality, activity levels, use of space, and responses to enrichment reflect aspects of well-being.

The Zoo's Endocrinology Lab contributes to Department research projects by analyzing hormones that regulate or influence physiology and behavior. Hormone concentrations and patterns reflect an animal's reproductive status and serve as an indirect indicator of well-being. In addition, the Lab provides hormone monitoring and diagnostic services not only for the Saint Louis Zoo, but also for other zoos, field researchers and wildlife managers.

The Reproductive and Behavioral Sciences Department also works with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) Reproductive Management Center—formerly the AZA Wildlife Contraception Center—to support the genetic health, well-being and sustainability of AZA animal populations. The Center began as the AZA Contraception Advisory Group in 1989, and as the need grew for centralized data and information on contraceptive use, the AZA established the Wildlife Contraception Center at the Saint Louis Zoo. The role of the Center has expanded to include more than research and information on contraception, prompting a new name—the Reproductive Management Center. The Saint Louis Zoo serves as the home of the Center and its Director, Program Scientist and Program Analyst, but its advisors come from around the world and include scientists, veterinarians, regulatory specialists, human reproduction specialists and animal managers.

Scientific research is integral to the mission of the Saint Louis Zoo and the Zoo supports efforts to facilitate research projects led by non-Zoo scientists.

Click here to review information on research collaboration involving Zoo animals, Zoo visitors, animal records, or free-ranging animals on Saint Louis Zoo sites.