The San Antonio Zoo recognized internationally known conservationist Dr. George Archibald during its 11th Annual Education 2 Conservation Celebration Luncheon on April 30, presenting him with the 2026 Wildlife Conservation of the Year Award.

Archibald, co-founder and senior conservationist of the International Crane Foundation, was honored for decades of work dedicated to protecting crane species and preserving habitats around the world.

For more than 50 years, Archibald has led conservation efforts focused on research, captive breeding, habitat restoration, education, and the reintroduction of cranes into the wild. His work has helped unite governments, scientists, local communities, and conservation supporters in protecting all 15 crane species globally.

One of his earliest and most recognized conservation achievements involved helping save the endangered whooping crane population in North America. At one point, the species had dwindled to only a handful remaining in the wild.

San Antonio Zoo has also played a historic role in those recovery efforts. In 1956, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service asked the zoo to care for an injured whooping crane named Rosie. After recovering from a wing injury, Rosie became part of a groundbreaking breeding effort at the zoo.

By 1967, Rosie successfully produced offspring, marking a major step forward in whooping crane conservation. The zoo later helped pioneer breeding techniques that contributed to recovery programs across multiple institutions and helped reintroduce the birds into their natural habitats.

Today, the zoo continues that mission through its “Back from the Brink” whooping crane habitat, which opened in 2019 and was designed to support breeding and long-term care through natural wetland-style environments.

During the luncheon, attendees also received updates on the zoo’s educational and conservation initiatives. The event featured conservation leaders, community supporters, and a keynote address from Archibald himself.

Tim Morrow, president and CEO of San Antonio Zoo, praised Archibald’s lifelong commitment to wildlife conservation, calling his impact on crane preservation and ecosystems around the world extraordinary.