The Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program is an educational outreach initiative designed for ages 5 and up. This 45-minute program features 6-7 ambassador animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. It’s TEKS aligned and can be customized to meet curriculum needs. Available Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the program requires reservations at least two weeks in advance but can book up 4-6 months ahead.
What is the Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program?
The Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program is an immersive educational experience that brings the zoo to you. It’s designed to provide an up-close encounter with various animals, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife. Here’s a breakdown of the program:
- Age Group: 5 years and older (including kindergarten)
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Animals Featured: 6-7 ambassador animals (birds, mammals, reptiles)
- Curriculum: TEKS aligned, customizable to specific needs
- Availability: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Booking: At least two weeks in advance (can book 4-6 months ahead)
How Much Does the Animal Adventures Program Cost?
The pricing for the Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program varies based on the distance from the zoo:
| Distance from Zoo | Price for 1 Program |
|---|---|
| 0-20 miles | $350 |
| 21-40 miles | $400 |
| 41-60 miles | $450 |
| 60+ miles | Call for quote |
For a second consecutive program, there’s an additional charge of $200.
What Other Animal Encounters Does Dallas Zoo Offer?
While the Animal Adventures Program is an outreach initiative, the Dallas Zoo offers several on-site animal encounters:
- Giraffe Feeding
- Location: Diane and Hal Brierley Giraffe Ridge, Wilds of Africa
- Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
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Cost: $6 per feed ($10 for 2 feed bundles)
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Birds Landing
- Location: Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo, ZooNorth
- Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
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Cost: $2 to feed birds, free entry
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Wild Encounters Stage
- Location: Wilds of Africa
- Features: Various animals including reptiles, free-flighted birds, porcupines
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Cost: Included in general admission
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Wonders of the Wild
- Location: ZooNorth Amphitheater
- Time: Varies by season (check zoo schedule)
- Cost: Free with general admission
- Duration: 20-minute show
How Does the Animal Adventures Program Support Education?
The Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program is designed to support educational objectives:
- TEKS aligned curriculum
- Customizable content to meet specific educational needs
- Hands-on experience with ambassador animals
- Promotes understanding of wildlife and conservation
This program is part of a broader educational initiative at Dallas Zoo, which includes:
- WildLife Heroes Club (ages 3-8)
- Stroller Buddies (10-35 months)
- Friday Safari and Thursday Safari (ages 3-12)
Each of these programs offers unique learning experiences, from habitat observations to conservation-related activities.
What Should You Know Before Booking the Animal Adventures Program?
Before booking the Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program, consider the following:
- Advance Booking: Reserve at least two weeks in advance, but be aware it can book up 4-6 months ahead.
- Group Size: While the program can accommodate most audience sizes, check the Program Code of Conduct for specific limits.
- Customization: The program can be tailored to meet specific curriculum needs.
- Location: The program comes to you, with pricing based on distance from the zoo.
- Animal Variety: Expect to see 6-7 different ambassador animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.
How Does the Animal Adventures Program Compare to On-Site Zoo Experiences?
The Animal Adventures Program offers unique benefits compared to on-site zoo experiences:
- Convenience: The program comes to you, eliminating the need for transportation to the zoo.
- Focused Learning: With a smaller group and targeted content, participants can engage more deeply with the material.
- Customization: The program can be tailored to specific educational needs or interests.
- Intimate Animal Encounters: Participants get closer to the animals than they might in a general zoo visit.
However, on-site zoo experiences offer:
- Wider Variety: Access to all zoo exhibits and animals.
- Full-Day Experience: More time to explore and learn at your own pace.
- Additional Programs: Access to other zoo programs and shows.
What Are the Educational Benefits of the Animal Adventures Program?
The Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program offers several educational benefits:
- Hands-On Learning: Direct interaction with animals enhances retention and engagement.
- Curriculum Alignment: TEKS alignment ensures the program supports classroom learning objectives.
- Conservation Awareness: Promotes understanding of wildlife conservation issues.
- Diverse Animal Exposure: Introduces students to a variety of animal species and their characteristics.
- Customized Content: Can be tailored to focus on specific topics or themes relevant to the group’s interests or curriculum.
How Can Schools or Organizations Book the Animal Adventures Program?
To book the Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program:
- Contact the Dallas Zoo education department at least two weeks in advance.
- Provide details about your group size, location, and any specific curriculum needs.
- Choose a date and time (Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
- Confirm pricing based on your location’s distance from the zoo.
- Complete any required paperwork or agreements.
- Prepare your space for the arrival of the zoo educators and ambassador animals.
Remember, popular dates can book up to 4-6 months in advance, so early planning is recommended.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for the Animal Adventures Program?
While specific safety measures aren’t detailed in the provided information, it’s reasonable to assume the Dallas Zoo implements standard safety protocols for their outreach programs. These likely include:
- Trained handlers for all ambassador animals
- Guidelines for participant interaction with animals
- Health and safety checks for all animals before each program
- Clear instructions for participants on how to behave around the animals
- First aid preparedness for any unforeseen circumstances
For detailed safety information, it’s best to contact the Dallas Zoo directly when booking your program.
The Dallas Zoo Animal Adventures Program offers a unique, educational, and engaging experience that brings the wonder of wildlife directly to schools and organizations. By combining curriculum-aligned content with up-close animal encounters, it provides an unforgettable learning opportunity for participants of all ages.
References:
1. https://www.dallaszoo.com/explore-the-zoo/encounters-experiences/
2. https://www.dallaszoo.com/programs/
3. https://www.dallaszoo.com/education-programs/