It’s Christmas in July! Join us this Thursday (7/25) for Christmas-themed enrichment at the Zoo. See habitats decked with fresh-cut pine boughs from the BGE Browse Program and mounds of ice shavings donated from Mt. Pleasant Ice Arena, and watch as animals like the polar bears and porcupines receive special mid-year holiday treats.

PLUS, Santa will make an appearance in his fun summer gear! He will be ‘chilling’ in Polar Bear Watch with Zoo mascots, Sven the African penguin and Rita the reticulated giraffe. It’ll be a holly jolly photo-op! This event is FREE with Zoo admission or membership.

What is Enrichment?

Animal Enrichment is any item or activity designed to stimulate an animal’s instincts and encourage natural behaviors. Enrichment is specifically developed for each species by a team of behavioral specialists. These activities and objects enhance the care keepers provide the animals, by adding variety to their daily routines and ensuring each animal is both physically and mentally stimulated.

Give Enrichment

On Enrichment Days, keepers give the animals special enrichment treats made by Zoo volunteers, but you can give enrichment any day! Donate an enrichment item from the Zoo’s enrichment wish list.