Quick Overview
- 1#1: ZIMS - Global standard software for managing zoological animal records, husbandry, medical data, and conservation across zoos and aquariums.
- 2#2: Tracks - Comprehensive management system for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks handling animal care, staff, visitors, finance, and inventory.
- 3#3: ZooEasy - Cloud-based platform for tracking animal pedigrees, health records, breeding, and housing in zoos and collections.
- 4#4: PastPerfect Zoo - Collection management software with dedicated zoo modules for animal tracking, images, and reports.
- 5#5: TMS - Enterprise collection management system used by zoos for detailed animal inventory, loans, and research data.
- 6#6: Altru - CRM and operations platform for zoos managing memberships, ticketing, events, and donor relations.
- 7#7: EMu - Robust collection management solution for natural history institutions and zoos handling specimens and live animals.
- 8#8: Specify - Biodiversity collections software adaptable for zoo animal records, fieldwork, and research tracking.
- 9#9: CollectionSpace - Open-source platform for managing museum and zoo collections with customizable modules for procedures and objects.
- 10#10: KZOOM - Zoo-specific management software for animal data, enclosures, diets, and veterinary records.
Tools were ranked by evaluating core features—including animal tracking, health management, and operational workflows—paired with user experience, technical reliability, and overall value across diverse institutional requirements.
Comparison Table
Effective zoo management relies on specialized software to streamline tasks like animal care tracking and operational coordination; this comparison table explores top tools such as ZIMS, Tracks, ZooEasy, PastPerfect Zoo, TMS, and more. Readers will discover key features, use cases, and suitability, empowering them to identify the best fit for their facility’s unique needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ZIMS Global standard software for managing zoological animal records, husbandry, medical data, and conservation across zoos and aquariums. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 10/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Tracks Comprehensive management system for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks handling animal care, staff, visitors, finance, and inventory. | enterprise | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 3 | ZooEasy Cloud-based platform for tracking animal pedigrees, health records, breeding, and housing in zoos and collections. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | PastPerfect Zoo Collection management software with dedicated zoo modules for animal tracking, images, and reports. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | TMS Enterprise collection management system used by zoos for detailed animal inventory, loans, and research data. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Altru CRM and operations platform for zoos managing memberships, ticketing, events, and donor relations. | enterprise | 5.8/10 | 4.2/10 | 6.1/10 | 5.0/10 |
| 7 | EMu Robust collection management solution for natural history institutions and zoos handling specimens and live animals. | enterprise | 4.8/10 | 5.2/10 | 5.5/10 | 4.0/10 |
| 8 | Specify Biodiversity collections software adaptable for zoo animal records, fieldwork, and research tracking. | specialized | 4.2/10 | 3.2/10 | 5.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 9 | CollectionSpace Open-source platform for managing museum and zoo collections with customizable modules for procedures and objects. | other | 4.2/10 | 3.8/10 | 4.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | KZOOM Zoo-specific management software for animal data, enclosures, diets, and veterinary records. | specialized | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.9/10 |
Global standard software for managing zoological animal records, husbandry, medical data, and conservation across zoos and aquariums.
Comprehensive management system for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks handling animal care, staff, visitors, finance, and inventory.
Cloud-based platform for tracking animal pedigrees, health records, breeding, and housing in zoos and collections.
Collection management software with dedicated zoo modules for animal tracking, images, and reports.
Enterprise collection management system used by zoos for detailed animal inventory, loans, and research data.
CRM and operations platform for zoos managing memberships, ticketing, events, and donor relations.
Robust collection management solution for natural history institutions and zoos handling specimens and live animals.
Biodiversity collections software adaptable for zoo animal records, fieldwork, and research tracking.
Open-source platform for managing museum and zoo collections with customizable modules for procedures and objects.
Zoo-specific management software for animal data, enclosures, diets, and veterinary records.
ZIMS
specializedGlobal standard software for managing zoological animal records, husbandry, medical data, and conservation across zoos and aquariums.
International shared database with standardized global taxonomy, enabling real-time data exchange and collaborative conservation efforts across 1,200+ institutions.
ZIMS (Zoological Information Management System) from Species360 is the gold standard in zoo management software, serving over 1,200 institutions worldwide with a centralized platform for animal care data. It comprehensively tracks animal demographics, health records, husbandry, behavior, enclosures, diets, and medical histories, while supporting global data sharing for breeding, conservation, and research. The cloud-based system ensures standardized taxonomy and interoperability, enabling seamless collaboration across zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks.
Pros
- Unparalleled comprehensiveness with modules for animal records, medical, husbandry, inventory, and studbooks
- Global shared database fosters collaboration, research, and conservation breeding programs
- Robust reporting, analytics, and integration with tools like GIS for enclosure mapping
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Primarily optimized for mid-to-large institutions; smaller zoos may find it overwhelming
- High subscription costs relative to simpler alternatives
Best For
Large zoos, aquariums, and conservation organizations needing a standardized, collaborative platform for advanced animal management and data sharing.
Pricing
Membership-based annual fees via Species360, typically $2,000–$50,000+ depending on institution size, animal count, and modules (e.g., ZIMS Core, Medical, Studbooks).
Tracks
enterpriseComprehensive management system for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks handling animal care, staff, visitors, finance, and inventory.
Advanced RFID/barcode scanning for precise asset and supply tracking across zoo premises
Tracks (trackswms.com) is a cloud-based warehouse management system (WMS) that excels in inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and logistics optimization, which can be adapted for managing zoo supplies, feed stocks, and equipment distribution across enclosures. While not purpose-built for zoos, it provides robust tools for real-time stock visibility, barcode/RFID scanning, and automated reordering to prevent shortages in animal care supplies. However, it falls short on core zoo-specific needs like animal health records, breeding tracking, or visitor management integrations.
Pros
- Excellent real-time inventory tracking for feed and supplies
- Scalable for multi-site zoos with strong warehouse logistics needs
- Integrates with ERP systems for procurement efficiency
Cons
- Lacks animal husbandry, veterinary, or enclosure management modules
- Not intuitive for non-logistics zoo staff
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller facilities
Best For
Mid-sized zoos prioritizing supply chain and inventory management over animal care software.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $500/month based on users, locations, and modules; free demo available.
ZooEasy
specializedCloud-based platform for tracking animal pedigrees, health records, breeding, and housing in zoos and collections.
Advanced interactive pedigree viewer with automated inbreeding coefficients and genetic diversity metrics
ZooEasy is a cloud-based animal management software tailored for zoos, wildlife parks, sanctuaries, and breeding programs, focusing on comprehensive tracking of animal pedigrees, health records, and genetics. It enables users to maintain detailed animal profiles with photos, documents, and lineage data, while supporting breeding planning and population management. The platform generates reports for compliance and research, making it ideal for facilities prioritizing genetic diversity and animal husbandry.
Pros
- Exceptional pedigree and genealogy tracking with visual charts
- Powerful breeding planner with inbreeding risk calculations
- Cloud-based with mobile access and easy data import/export
Cons
- Lacks integrated visitor ticketing or financial tools
- Limited advanced enclosure or inventory management
- Pricing scales quickly for large collections
Best For
Zoos and wildlife parks emphasizing breeding programs, genetic management, and animal registry compliance.
Pricing
Starts at €29/month for basic plans (up to 100 animals), €79/month for pro (unlimited), with custom enterprise pricing for large zoos.
PastPerfect Zoo
enterpriseCollection management software with dedicated zoo modules for animal tracking, images, and reports.
Advanced pedigree and lineage visualization for breeding and genetic management
PastPerfect Zoo is a specialized management software for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife collections, offering tools to track animal records, pedigrees, medical histories, diets, and behaviors. It also handles enclosure management, staff scheduling, visitor tracking, breeding programs, and compliance reporting. Designed as an extension of PastPerfect's museum software, it provides a centralized database for operational efficiency and research.
Pros
- Comprehensive animal tracking including pedigrees, husbandry, and medical records
- Perpetual licensing avoids recurring fees
- Strong reporting and integration with PastPerfect museum tools
Cons
- Dated interface with a steeper learning curve
- Limited mobile and cloud-native functionality
- Customization requires technical expertise
Best For
Small to mid-sized zoos and aquariums seeking robust, one-time purchase collection management software.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from $1,995 (single-user) to $9,995 (unlimited network); optional modules extra, with free updates for one year.
TMS
enterpriseEnterprise collection management system used by zoos for detailed animal inventory, loans, and research data.
Advanced living collection module with integrated pedigree management and international studbook connectivity
TMS (The Museum System) is an enterprise-grade collection management software primarily designed for museums, zoos, aquariums, and cultural institutions, enabling detailed cataloging and tracking of living and non-living collections. For zoos, it supports animal records including pedigrees, health histories, diets, enclosures, and breeding programs, alongside loans, acquisitions, and compliance reporting. It integrates CRM, visitor management, and analytics for comprehensive operations, though it's more generalized than purely zoo-focused tools.
Pros
- Powerful pedigree and lineage tracking for breeding and studbooks
- Robust reporting and AZA/WAZA compliance tools
- Scalable for large collections with multi-site support
Cons
- Complex interface with steep learning curve for new users
- High implementation and customization costs
- Limited native mobile apps for field staff
Best For
Mid-to-large zoos and aquariums needing enterprise-level collection management integrated with CRM and compliance features.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; annual subscriptions typically start at $15,000+ based on users, modules, and hosting.
Altru
enterpriseCRM and operations platform for zoos managing memberships, ticketing, events, and donor relations.
Integrated donor and membership management that unifies fundraising with ticketing for mission-driven revenue growth
Altru by Blackbaud is a cloud-based CRM platform primarily designed for nonprofits, including zoos and aquariums, focusing on constituent relationship management. It excels in handling ticketing, memberships, fundraising, donations, and marketing to drive revenue and visitor engagement. However, it lacks core zoo management features like animal tracking, health records, breeding management, enclosure monitoring, or inventory control for feed and supplies.
Pros
- Powerful CRM and fundraising tools tailored for nonprofits
- Seamless ticketing and membership management for high-volume visitors
- Robust reporting, analytics, and integrations with other Blackbaud tools
Cons
- No specialized animal husbandry, tracking, or care management features
- Complex interface with a steep learning curve for non-technical users
- High cost with custom pricing that may not justify limited zoo-specific functionality
Best For
Mid-sized zoos and aquariums emphasizing visitor revenue, donor relations, and operational CRM over animal care and facility management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,000–$10,000/month for mid-sized organizations, plus implementation fees.
EMu
enterpriseRobust collection management solution for natural history institutions and zoos handling specimens and live animals.
Advanced taxonomy and nomenclature tools for precise biological specimen classification
EMu by Axiell is a robust collections management software primarily designed for museums and cultural institutions to catalog, manage, and research specimens, including zoological collections. While it excels in handling detailed metadata for preserved animal specimens, it lacks native support for live zoo animal management such as health tracking, breeding pedigrees, or enclosure logistics. It provides strong database capabilities with multimedia integration and reporting tools that could be adapted for basic zoo record-keeping.
Pros
- Comprehensive cataloging and metadata management for specimens
- Strong multimedia and reporting capabilities
- Scalable for large collections with multi-site support
Cons
- Not designed for live animal tracking, veterinary records, or operational zoo needs
- Steep learning curve and requires customization for zoo use
- High cost with limited value for non-museum zoo applications
Best For
Natural history museums or research institutions managing zoological specimen collections rather than operational live zoos.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on collection size and modules, with implementation fees.
Specify
specializedBiodiversity collections software adaptable for zoo animal records, fieldwork, and research tracking.
Advanced taxonomic name resolution service (TNRS) for accurate species identification and synonym handling
Specify is a free, open-source collection management software primarily designed for natural history museums, herbaria, and universities to catalog and track biological specimens such as preserved animals, plants, and fossils. It offers robust tools for data entry, taxonomy management, loans, exchanges, and reporting, with strong support for standards like Darwin Core. While powerful for static collections, it lacks native support for live animal management essential to zoos, such as health monitoring, breeding schedules, or enclosure tracking.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Highly customizable via open-source code and plugins
- Excellent taxonomy tools and standardization for specimen data
Cons
- Not built for live zoo animals; focused on preserved specimens
- No built-in features for veterinary records, feeding, or breeding
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring technical expertise
Best For
Museums or research labs managing preserved animal specimens who need basic inventory tracking but not full live zoo operations.
Pricing
Free (open-source); optional paid support and hosting services available from the Specify Foundation.
CollectionSpace
otherOpen-source platform for managing museum and zoo collections with customizable modules for procedures and objects.
Fully open-source codebase enabling unlimited customization without licensing costs
CollectionSpace is an open-source collections management software primarily designed for museums, archives, and cultural institutions to catalog, track, and manage physical and digital collections with detailed metadata. It supports procedures like loans, acquisitions, and media handling, making it suitable for static artifact management. For zoos, it can be adapted for non-living collections such as taxidermy or educational specimens but lacks features for live animal care, breeding, or health tracking.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source
- Highly customizable for metadata-heavy collections
- Strong community support and integrations
Cons
- Not built for live animal management or zoo-specific needs like veterinary records or enclosures
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Limited out-of-the-box reporting for operational zoo tasks
Best For
Budget-conscious zoos or aquariums managing static collections like specimens or artifacts alongside museum-like operations.
Pricing
Free (open-source); self-hosted with optional paid support or cloud hosting fees.
KZOOM
specializedZoo-specific management software for animal data, enclosures, diets, and veterinary records.
Advanced integration with international studbooks for breeding and genetic tracking
KZOOM by Axiell is a comprehensive collections management system tailored for zoos, aquariums, and wildlife collections. It handles animal records, husbandry workflows, veterinary tracking, breeding programs, enclosure management, and compliance reporting. The software emphasizes data integrity for conservation efforts and integrates with global studbook systems.
Pros
- Robust animal database with studbook integration
- Strong compliance and reporting tools for conservation
- Customizable workflows for husbandry and veterinary needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface
- Limited mobile and real-time field access
- Enterprise pricing lacks transparency
Best For
Mid-to-large zoos and aquariums focused on long-term data management and international compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; subscription-based with quotes starting around $10,000+ annually depending on scale.
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, ZIMS emerges as the top choice, setting the global standard for managing animal records, conservation, and cross-institutional collaboration. Tracks and ZooEasy follow closely, offering exceptional solutions—Tracks for end-to-end operational management and ZooEasy for precise tracking of pedigrees and housing. Each tool reflects the industry's drive to enhance care and conservation, with standout options for diverse needs.
Don't miss ZIMS for a reliable, comprehensive approach to zoo management; its proven track record makes it the ideal starting point for optimizing your operations and impact.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison