The Future Is in Bloom 🌸

This Valentine’s Day, you’re helping protect fascinating flora NOTES FROM THE FIELD | 2026 | No. 2

Orchids make up one of the largest and most varied plant families on Earth. They’re also some of the most widespread, as these bold blossoms thrive on every continent except Antarctica. No matter where they grow, they’re essential to their intricate ecosystems and the species they share them with. Despite their worldwide presence, many orchid species are unfortunately endangered due to illegal wildlife trafficking and habitat loss. We put the petal to the metal and collaborate with international partners to protect and care for them through our global Conservation Hubs. This Valentine’s Day, discover more about these radiant flowers and the innovative ways your support helps give them a bright, blooming future.

BURSTING WITH LIFE

An orchid’s scent, shape, and color aren’t just for show. They attract specific kinds of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, or hummingbirds, creating symbiotic relationships that benefit each species and keep their delicate ecosystems in balance. POLLEN POWER >

We recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of our Orchid Program, which helps guide our global conservation efforts. Through robust partnerships and groundbreaking technology, we’ve worked tirelessly to protect orchids around the world—and we’re just getting started. LONG LEGACY >

Our orchid conservation work takes us across the Pacific and back again. Thanks to a longstanding relationship with partners in Palau, we sustainably collect seeds in the island nation to grow in our facilities in San Diego, then return them to their native habitats for replanting. SEEDS OF HOPE >

Protecting orchids is a big endeavor, aided by some very small samples. Our micropropagation lab, which recently celebrated 20 years, can cultivate thousands of plants from just a bit of tissue, supercharging our ability to maintain their global populations. GIVING PROPS >

Sometimes wildlife need extraordinary care, especially when threatened by the illegal plant trade. The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park have both been honored to serve as Plant Rescue Centers since 1988, and we’ve taken in more than 2,000 orchids intercepted by authorities to ensure they continue to thrive. FRESH START>

During Plant Days at the Zoo, we invite you to step inside our resplendent Orchid House for an up-close look at these incredible flowers. The greenhouse is only open once a month, so plan your next visit and discover all we do to help these fabulous florals flourish. ORCHID ODYSSEY >

Your monthly gift will make a world of a difference for wildlife. Friend , your ongoing support makes a lifesaving difference for orchids and other vulnerable and endangered species. As a Wildlife Hero, your monthly gift will take us further as we shape conservation strategies for wildlife worldwide. And as a Wildlife Hero, your support will bring hope for the extraordinary wildlife relying on us to thrive—and survive—each and every day. You make it all possible, and we’re forever grateful for you. WILDLIFE HEROES CHANGE THE WORLD.

BE A HERO

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Your support saves wildlife. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international conservation nonprofit and a registered 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID# 95-1648219. With more than 100 years of wildlife care expertise and partnerships around the globe, we are saving, protecting, and caring for species worldwide. Follow along on our mission to save wildlife

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