Wild Encounters Outreach

Discover the Wonders of the World's Wildlife with a Zoo to You Program!

Let us bring the zoo to you! Our educator outreach program transforms your classroom lesson or special event into a fun and interactive occasion! Every program includes a variety of animals and educational instruction for hands-on learning. We bring learning to life right from your classroom!

Zoo to You Programs

The Zoomobile visits locations within one hour's traveling distance from the Washington Park Zoo during open season, Monday-Friday. The programs can start any time between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Our informative and entertaining programs are approximately one hour and include live animals and biofacts. These programs are designed to educate the public while reinforcing our message of wildlife conservation

Outreach Form

Frequently Asked Questions about our Wild Encounters

What is the Zoo to You program?

Wild Encounters is a traveling educational program that visits schools, libraries, community centers, senior centers/housing, daycare centers, scout groups, etc. The program includes live animals such as birds, reptiles, and invertebrates, among others, and some of the animals may be touchable. We also use biofacts (animal-related artifacts) to create a hands-on experience for the participants.

What lessons does the Zoo to You program teach?

Our outreach programs strive to integrate its message into what lessons or subject matter your facility is teaching. We do not do provide presentations in private homes or petting zoo-type displays.

How soon in advance must I reserve my program?

We request that each program be booked a minimum of three weeks in advance, due to staffing and other events.

How long is the Zoo to You program?

Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes to an hour. The educator adjusts the length of each program based on the interest of the participants. The educator will also shorten or cancel any program if the welfare of the animals is compromised in any way.

How much does a Zoo to You program cost?

The fee for the Zoo to You program depends on the location and the size of the group. We request that payment be made in full two weeks in advance to keep your confirmation unless prior arrangements are made with the Education department.

On-site Programs

Outreach Scheduling Information

For more information on one of our Educational Programs, or to arrange a program for your group, please contact us.

Terms and Conditions of Outreach Programs

Ambassador animals are living creatures. Therefore, for their safety, comfort, and well-being we are not permitted to be offsite for more than 3 hours. Due to the needs of our animals, we cannot guarantee a specific animal species for a program. We reserve the right to refuse any program that puts the safety and well-being of our animals and staff at risk.

Most zoo animals can not be shown should the temperature not reach 60 degrees F, or if it exceeds 85 degrees. Should precipitation develop, proper cover shall be made available for the program to continue under safe and dry conditions.

The Zoo has the right to cancel any outreach program if traveling conditions are deemed dangerous to the welfare of the staff and/or animals being transported.

For all of our program requirements, please see the attached forms.

Virtual Outreach Programs

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have made our education outreach programs more accessible for social distancing. These programs are great for schools, groups, clubs, and more. Just like in-person programs, our virtual programs are always tailored to your specific needs and learning objectives.

Pre-Recorded Program - $75

Approximately 20 minutes of pre-recorded footage.
2 Ambassador Animals.
Videos are sent to you via email and Google Drive.

Virtual-LIVE Program - $150

Approximately 45-minutes.
2-3 Ambassador Animals or 1-2 Zoo Animals and Educator.
Bio-facts such as Skulls and Pelts.
LIVE questions and answers.