Animal Immersion Programs

Have you ever wondered what an elephant’s skin feels like? How about what it’s like to care for 200 different birds? We offer a range of unique behind-the-scenes education experiences that can help you answer these questions! Our Wild Encounters and Keeper for a Day programs are the perfect addition to any Zoo visit and offer something extra for guests of all ages! Whether you are looking to learn a little bit more about your favorite animal or you have always wonder what it would be like to become a zoo keeper- we have an experience for you.

Our Wild Encounter programs are the best way to get up close and personal with some of your favorite animal ambassadors. Currently we offer Wild Encounters with our giant pandas, African elephants, Aldabra tortoises, and lions. During these experiences, you will be greeted by one of our passionate educators, learn interesting information about the animals, get a chance to go behind-the-scenes, meet one of our zoo keepers and of course meet one of our animal ambassadors! These programs offer the perfect addition to your family’s visit to the Zoo and make a great present for that animal lover you know!

If you are looking to dive deeper and get a more in-depth experience, then be sure to consider our Keeper for a Day programs. These experiences offer guests that are 14 years old or older a firsthand glimpse into what it’s like to be a zookeeper. One of our passionate educators will guide you through the day as you spend 8 hours working right alongside our animal care experts and learning what goes into keeping our animals healthy and happy. Not sure which animal department you would want to spend the day with? Our typical Keeper for a Day offerings allow you spend time in multiple departments, too! So, you could start your day out by learning how to give an elephant a bath and could finish by helping our keepers feed a Sumatran tiger.

As the weather starts to warm up, these programs are going into full swing. So, next time you are planning on coming to the Zoo, consider spicing up your visit with one of these immersive education experiences! Both our Wild Encounters and Keeper for a Day programs are available for registration ahead of time!