Zootierliste is an online reference resource that collects and organizes information about vertebrate species and their presence in zoos and other public animal-holding institutions worldwide. Its catalogue covers mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and domestic breeds and varieties, and records both current and former holdings. The site aims to keep its information as current and complete as possible, inviting knowledgeable visitors to report errors, suggest additions, and share details about animal collections.

Visitors can browse species and institutions, use standard or advanced search, explore zoo rankings and nearby holdings, and consult sources, abbreviations, FAQs, and guidance for submitting photographs. Registered users gain access to concise species profiles covering topics such as subspecies, distribution, habitat, conservation status, and first breeding, along with discussion-board participation and a list of recent changes. Zootierliste also highlights the ZGAP’s “Zoo Animal of the Year” campaign, which promotes conservation projects and coordinated breeding. The project is maintained by a team whose administrators are members of the Zoological Society for the Conservation of Species and Populations (ZGAP).