MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Zoo has successfully completed the reaccreditation process with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, according to a Thursday, Sept. 19 press release from the zoo.

The accreditation was granted Saturday, Sept. 14 at the AZA's Annual Conference following a comprehensive review process.

"Earning accreditation is a mark of excellence and a testament to the Milwaukee County Zoo’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of animal care and conservation," said Dan Ashe, president and CEO of AZA.

The zoo has maintained AZA accreditation continuously since 1976. The evaluation occurs every five years and assesses areas such as animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation efforts and guest services.

According to the zoo, only 13 percent of USDA-licensed wildlife exhibitors achieve AZA accreditation.

County Executive David Crowley commented, saying that the work on maintaining the zoo's excellence is not over just because it has maintained accreditation. "We will continue to strive and make the Zoo an inclusive, educational, community investment that provides top-tier care and is beneficial to the greater good for many years to come."