Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center

The Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, located on the West Bank of New Orleans, Louisiana, is an expansive 1,200-acre conservation site run by the Audubon Nature Institute. The center, established in 1993, is not a traditional zoo. Instead, it's a breeding and research facility with a primary focus on preserving endangered and threatened species, particularly those that require large spaces for breeding or are sensitive to the presence of humans.

The Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center is not typically open to the public, considering its primary function as a research and breeding facility. However, the center occasionally hosts tours and events for members and sponsors, where visitors can learn about the center's mission and ongoing conservation efforts. This unique setup ensures minimal human interaction, providing a conducive environment for the animals.

The center is home to the Alliance for Sustainable Wildlife (ASW), a partnership between Audubon Nature Institute and San Diego Zoo Global, designed as a haven for vanishing species. Its focus is to create natural habitats for various endangered species, offering them the best chance for breeding and survival. The center also hosts a research department instrumental in conservation breeding, field conservation, and wildlife medicine. They are globally recognized for their work in these fields.