The Association of Professional Wildlife Educators recognizes its role in, and responsibilities to, private and public wildlife education facilities, museums, nature centers, zoological parks and individuals with a professional interest in wildlife handling, education and training.  Members must realize, and have a clear understanding of their individual roles, as well as the relationship between themselves, the captive wildlife in their care, the communities in which they live and work, and the public which they serve, to whom they are ultimately responsible. Members of this Association, specifically, must maintain the fortitude and insight necessary to demonstrate a sense of responsibility, beyond reproach, within the principles of professionalism as dictated by: local, state, and federal law; morality; logic; and knowledge. These are the qualities to which APWE and every member of the professional community must aspire.  As a result, the highest standards of ethical and responsible conduct are an obligation of the members of APWE at all times in all places.

The establishment of a network of professional peers, through shared knowledge of training, research, husbandry, technology and education is the most significant contribution to the development and achievement of the highest and most effective means of advancing the field of Wildlife Education. APWE has established a list serve to circulate current and accurate knowledge and capability for the betterment of this professional community.

To join the APWE list serve network send an email to:
critterman@animaled.com  with Sign me up for APWE! in the subject line.

Recognizing the inherent need to maintain a positive image in the eye of the public. To demonstrate and insure dignity and respect for people as well as wildlife, and to promote the best possible treatment of the captive wildlife for which we are responsible for.

We, the members of the Association of Professional Wildlife Educators, establish and adopt the following  Code of Ethics, to act as responsible ambassadors of the professional wildlife education community. As members of the Association of Professional Wildlife Educators, each of us is committed and obligated to:

v      Demonstrate the highest levels of respect and humaneness for all wildlife.

v      Exercise professional integrity in representing ourselves as members of the professional wildlife education community, as representatives of the facilities we serve, or as members of APWE by maintaining the highest standards of personal, professional, as well as, legal business conduct and behavior.

v      Display the highest integrity, the best judgments or decisions possible, and use our professional skills to foster respect, understanding, and cooperation among fellow members and others associated within the community in general, and the wildlife education community in particular.

v      Promote the professional development of those in, or entering, the wildlife education profession by assisting them to understand the functions, responsibilities and duties of this profession.

v      Utilize only legal and ethical means when working to influence governmental legislation and regulations.

v      Engage only in activities in accordance with local, state, federal or international laws and permit conditions. To fully cooperate with governmental agencies, which regulate animal welfare, and where applicable, agencies which grant non-profit status (IRS). Members will issue statements that are true, valid and not misleading when speaking to the pubic, press or governmental agencies.