ambassador animal

English

Eagle ambassador animal at an educational event.

Noun

ambassador animal (plural ambassador animals)

1. A tame nondomestic animal, usually from a zoo or wildlife centre, that is used to educate the public about its species, or conservation in general.
   • 2022 March, American Association of Zoo Keepers, Animal Keepers' Forum‎^[1], volume 49, number 3, page 74:

     Cici , a 46-year-old Sulphurcrested Cockatoo […] participated in a parrot encounter program for approximately 30 years. Cici currently continues his role as an ambassador animal, while his training has evolved to meet current choice and control welfare standards as outlined by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA).

Usage notes

The inverse wording, "animal ambassador", is also widely used.

See also

• charismatic megafauna