Education at Zoo New York
Zoo New York is focused on “science-based natural & cultural experiences” as the driver for our conservation education. Our programs are designed to foster education through exploration and guided discovery for both groups and individuals. We endeavor to continually bring new and unique opportunities to our community by updating and customizing our programs. By doing this we aim to keep our program relevant and engaging for each and every visitor.
In this section of the website you will find information the following topics. Click on them to explore:
EdZOOcation Programs In Our Classroom
"Thank you for offering this service! My students and I loved it! ” – Carthage Elementary Teachers
During our 30-minute on-site EdZOOcation programs, groups gather in our classroom to learn about wildlife biology and ecology through up-close encounters with our Animal Ambassadors. In the virtual adaptation to this program, we present from our classroom to you through ZOOM or other video applications.
Zoo New York is proud to present Educational Programming that strives to meet Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The Zoo currently offers three grade-specific program options for EdZOOcation bookings. We will work with teachers and educators to provide the best program for your group.
We are continually striving to create more opportunities for education. Please contact our Education Department with any questions. Our program options may be adapted for all age groups and are limited to participation by no more than 25 individuals per session. Ask our Director about expansions.
BRIM Birds, Reptiles, Invertebrates, and Mammals (PreK-2nd)
Join us on a journey of comparisons as we travel through the animal kingdom. In BRIM we will investigate the four characteristics thermoregulation, fur/scales, eggs/live birth, and parenting style. Meet a couple animal ambassadors and explore their natural history.
Wild Wonders (grades 3-5)
An interactive program that introduces children to the wonderful world of wildlife. The Wild Wonders program includes educational presentations with discussions about species characteristics, natural behaviors, and how we are all connected through the balance of ecosystems. There are opportunities for Q/A and the program concludes with the opportunity for participants to create lasting memories through direct connection with our Animal Ambassadors.
Creature Culture (grades 6-8)
An interactive program that introduces young minds to the complexity of our natural world. The Creature Culture program includes educational presentations with discussions about animal adaptations, predator/prey relationships, and conservation initiatives. There are opportunities for Q/A and the program concludes with the opportunity for participants to create lasting memories through direct connection with our Animal Ambassadors.
Nature of Natives - NEW!!
Become immersed in nature as we learn about native species. This opportunity will help define native, non-native, and invasive species with the aid of biofacts and animal ambassadors. There are opportunities for Q/A and the program concludes with the option for participants to create lasting memories through direct connection with our Animal Ambassadors. [Please fill in Natives under the custom option]
Custom Programs (All Ages)
Be sure to ask about what topics we can cover. Zoo New York is here to help reach your conservation education goals by being able to cover numerous topics. Ask about your today!
Please call or email with onsite program inquiries. Reservations can be made through our Field Trip Form.
ScoutZOOcation
Zoo New York is proud to offer scout programs for those in Girl Scouts of the USA or Boy Scouts of America.
Everything from Lion scouts and Daisies all the way to Ambassadors & Life Scout we have a badge or activity for you.
Open Scout Programs will be posted as they become available. Interested in signing your group up for a specific session? Click the link below to fill out the Scout EdZoocation request form
Pricing
We have a minimum requirement of 5 youth or a $60 payment for groups less than five. Youth pricing is $12 per program participant, adult leaders are $10 per. Half of the payment is due 30 days before the program date, which is refundable up to 14 days. Cancellation due to weather is available for refund or reschedule.
Education Days
Little Wildlife Parade & Migratory Bird Day- May 13th
Little Wildlife Parade & Migratory Bird Day- May 13th
Little Wildlife Parade & Migratory Bird Day- May 13th
Fly on over to our World Migratory Bird Day featuring our Little Critter Parade. Families and little ones are encouraged to dress up as their favorite animal and join us in a parade!
Pollinator Pride- June 24th
Little Wildlife Parade & Migratory Bird Day- May 13th
Little Wildlife Parade & Migratory Bird Day- May 13th
Buzz, flutter, fly and crawl into this day as we explore the world and the roles of pollinators. More details to follow.
World Otter Day- May 27th
Little Wildlife Parade & Migratory Bird Day- May 13th
Invertebrate Day- July 1st
Visit to see the North American river otters get some special enrichments. Learn about otters as indicator species and more.
Invertebrate Day- July 1st
National Wildlife Day- September 4th
Invertebrate Day- July 1st
Learn about all the critters with no backbone. Fun facts, activities, and discovery for all.
National Wildlife Day- September 4th
National Wildlife Day- September 4th
National Wildlife Day- September 4th
Lunar New Year- January 21st & 22nd
National Wildlife Day- September 4th
National Wildlife Day- September 4th
Join us in a day of activities celebrating the Lunar New Year. Follow the Zodiac animal trail, play traditional games, do crafts, make origami, and more!
World Wildlife Day- March 4th
International Forests Day- March 25th
International Forests Day- March 25th
We will be celebrating our New York State turtles at the Zoo! Join us for themed activities, crafts, meeting our animal ambassadors, and learning about turtles.
International Forests Day- March 25th
International Forests Day- March 25th
International Forests Day- March 25th
Forests are the key to so many things, and in 2012 the United Nations put forth International Forest Day to celebrate them. We are joining this year with the 2023 theme "Forests and Health". Come check out everything we have going on!
National Zoo Day- April 8th
International Forests Day- March 25th
Bat Appreciation Day- April 16th
Visit us to celebrate National Zoo Day! We will have activities and crafts
Bat Appreciation Day- April 16th
Bat Appreciation Day- April 16th
Bat Appreciation Day- April 16th
We will be learning about our lesser-known and understood flying mammal friends. There are nine species of bats in NYS, all of which are insectivores. Do a flying bat craft, learn about bats, or just check out the Zoo.
Earth Day- April 22nd
Bat Appreciation Day- April 16th
Earth Day- April 22nd
Join us this Earth Day and learn about the many ways we can all do little things to "Invest in Our Planet". Zoo New York is partnering with the DEC, DANC, North Country Library System, Tug Hill Commission, Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, and many more groups to bring you a fun, family friendly day of adventure.
Immediate Past Workshops
Christmas Bird Count
We will be participating in the 123rd Christmas Bird Count, a citizen science project with Audubon and North Country Bird Club.
During the day we had crafts, bird games, and information about this great project! Come create your own bird with us between 11 am and 3 pm. We will also be hosting a Storytime about the Bird Count at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm for kids of all ages.
Birding 101
Are you a birder? Already own a field guide? Can only identify a pigeon? Whichever level you are at there will be something for you at our Birding 101 workshop in our event space!
North Country Bird Club is presenting this workshop at no additional cost! If you choose to enter the Zoo afterward, regular admission applies. They will be helping us learn how:
- To get started birding
- Identify some local bird species
- Set up a feeder site
- AND start participating in SCIENCE!
SIGN UP for the workshop at the link below!
We at Zoo New York are joining Project FeederWatch a type of citizen science and YOU can participate! During your visit, November-April, stop in our FeederWatch corner at the Zoo and take a couple moments to watch the birds. Record the number and type of birds you see, and the Zoo will do the rest! This is available for ages 1-101!
Bird's song Brunch
Come learn how bird songs and a simple morning routine are related. We will be exploring the worlds of coffee, birds, and environmental impacts. You don't have to be a coffee lover to love birds or participate in this program, but it definitely helps.
This ticketed event (spaces limited) will include a:
- Continental brunch (pastries and fruit)
- Educational workshop/presentation
- Coffee tasting experience featuring at least three Gato Diablo Coffees
- Admission to the Zoo
Fresh Coffee is available for purchase after the program by the cup or the bag! The brunch and program start at 10 am and will run till 11 am.
Amphibians Identification
Are you interested in Spring's sounds of nature? Like looking for frogs? Do you know the difference between a salamander and a newt? Want to get involved and make a difference for conservation?
Join us in our Spring Amphibians workshop! Those that sign up will participate in learning about our native amphibians. We will get to know them by sight and sound while exploring what we can do to help with their conservation efforts through citizen science.
Those in attendance will:
- Attend a closed presentation in the classroom
- Leave with a listing of resources for identification & small packet
- Gain knowledge about our local amphibians & their habitats
- Be introduced to a citizen science platform.