Toss the Tusk

Do you own an item made from exotic animals? Maybe you inherited it from a family member, or you got it as a souvenir on a trip years ago. You have it but don't know what to do with it and want to get rid of it? Join us in Taking Action against the illegal wildlife trade by bringing old wildlife souvenirs to Oakland Zoo.

Simply drop-off items at the Snow Building on Saturday, October 7 from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. Drive-up & drop-off or stay around to talk with wardens from California Department of Fish and Wildlife and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and learn more about CSI (Conservation Science Investigation). This event is free to attend, but does not include admission to the Zoo.

Oakland Zoo is proud to be a part of this nationwide collection program. We will be the 4th AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) certified zoo to host a “Toss the Tusk” event in 2023.

What are we accepting & why?

We are accepting any wildlife-based items containing tusks, horns, bones, furs, turtle shells, reptilian skins, exotic feathers, and coral. These animal products can appear as jewelry, souvenirs, hair accessories, fashion accessories (purses, belts, clothing), carvings, instruments, and more. Relinquished items will be used by State and Government agencies for training wildlife enforcement and K9 units, DNA sequencing and geolocating, and their reference database; preventing future wildlife crimes.

Email conservation@oaklandzoo.org if you have questions about the event.

“Because the demand for ivory products is driving elephants toward extinction, consumers hold the key to ending the scourge of wildlife trafficking. By putting our actions in line with our values, we can work together to protect elephants and other treasured species for the benefit of our planet, our security, and future generations.”  -Dan Ashe, President, and CEO of, Association of Zoos & Aquariums.