For a zoo or aquarium to become an AZA member, they must undergo an extensive peer review which includes an initial application and a two day on-site visit by a team of zoo and aquarium professionals. The visiting team observes all aspects of the facility operation including keeper training, safety procedures for both animals and humans, education programs, veterinary programs, and a financial review. The team prepares a report, which is reviewed by the Accreditation Commission. After top officials are interviewed by the Commission, a vote is taken and accreditation is either granted or denied. Any facility that is denied may re-apply at a later date after the concerns of the Commission have been addressed.
Philippine crocodiles are the rarest and most endangered of all crocodilians.
Once found on at least eight islands in the Philippine Archipelago, over-hunting and habitat loss has confined them to small isolated pockets with approximately 100 remaining in swampy sections of a few islands.