A Conservation Legacy with A Global Reach Few Locals Know by Tim L. Tetzlaff

“It is high time to protect and preserve what is still left in Florida.”
– Dr. Henry Nehrling, Naples Zoo Gardens’ Founder, 1904
“The conservation of natural resources is the fundamental problem.
Unless we solve that problem, it will avail us little to solve all others.”
– Theodore Roosevelt, 1907

Tim L. Tetzlaff, Director of Conservation, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

I wish someone had documented the discussion between these two early conservationists when they walked in Nehrling’s garden. What I do know is that Roosevelt understood conservation isn’t a side issue—it’s fundamental. And our garden’s founder recognized the
urgency. A century later, their words remain more pressing than ever.

To be clear, Roosevelt connected conservation with whether future generations can grow nutritious food, drink fresh water, and breathe pure air. That’s why protecting species like the Florida panther isn’t just about a couple hundred cats. Florida’s ecosystems won’t collapse without panthers, but their fate is a warning sign. They are the proverbial canaries in a coal mine. If we enact efforts that allow panthers to thrive, it means we’re being good stewards of Florida’s wild spaces—and addressing Roosevelt’s top priority.

A Small Zoo with a Growing Conservation Legacy
While conservation is my primary focus, I know most of our guests focus on the animals in the historic garden, unaware of the breadth of our efforts. Yet, those who pause to read our exhibits will see that Naples Zoo funds 27 field staff from biologists to veterinarians across seven countries. Even better, my role and much of our conservation work are covered by the zoo’s operating budget—funded by guests simply visiting or becoming members. That also means no overhead expenses for those who invest in our conservation efforts. 100% goes to the field.

A Trusted Partner
While we’ve invested over $4 million dollars for plants and animals in the wild since 2014, Naples Zoo doesn’t just fund conservation—it builds relationships, offers logistical support, ensures transparency, and more. Naples Zoo’s impact comes from long-term conservation partnerships—some spanning decades. We are here for our partners, not just for a single grant, but for the long haul.

That’s why international conservation organizations trust Naples Zoo—not just to support projects, but to help shape solutions. It’s why we act as the U.S. fiscal agent for the Anteaters & Highways project to accept donations and make purchases without resources being lost to currency conversions and wire transfers. It’s why the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission can turn to Naples Zoo at any hour of the day or night to provide care for Florida panthers in crisis. It’s also why Naples Zoo was chosen as the international headquarters for the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group (MFG), a global consortium with members on five continents focused on saving lemurs and other endangered species.

Making Every Dollar Count
Funding for conservation is precious, so spending wisely matters. When rhino rangers in Africa needed two Toyota Land Cruisers, Naples Zoo didn’t buy them at retail price. Instead, we used our networks to acquire two fully customized vehicles for less than the cost of one standard model—maximizing impact at a fraction of the cost. Likewise, to support our regional partners, Naples Zoo designed and purchased the interpretive panels for Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, trailhead graphics for Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, and signage and brochures for Big Cypress National Preserve.

Luxury Safaris with Purpose
We also offer opportunities for those who want to experience conservation firsthand on exclusive safaris that can go far beyond commercial offerings. Thanks to long-term relationships, you can gain privileged access to conservation leaders and unique experiences. Imagine standing beside rhino rangers in Ngorongoro Crater, watching in awe as a giraffe rises after receiving a satellite tag, or hearing the nighttime roars of lions whose populations were restored by the community efforts you saw that day. These moments are even more powerful when you’re later sharing stories around the fire with these very conservationists from a TED Talk or nature documentary.

Carrying Forward a Legacy
Whether on safari with you or in an international meeting, I am honored to carry forward a conservation legacy rooted in Nehrling’s historic garden, surrounded by dedicated professionals and community supporters. Because, at the end of the day, conservation is an obligation. It’s about safeguarding our place in a long chain of conservation, ensuring that when future generations look back, they’ll be grateful for what we chose to protect today. Interested in forging that future?

Contact me at tim@napleszoo.org
To learn more or support these efforts, visit NaplesZoo.org/conserve

Together, we can create a brighter, more resilient future for people and wildlife

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit entrusted with educating families and caring for rare species in a century old historic garden. Since 2014, Naples Zoo has invested over $3.5 million saving plants and animals in the wild and fully funds the annual salary of 27 field staff in 7 countries including three wildlife veterinarians.

To learn more about how you can invest in a better future for people and wildlife, email tim@napleszoo.org.