early childhood — FALL | WINTER PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES 1

Programsand Events

2017 WINTER/SPRING

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KANGAROO CROSSING — PAGE 3TROPICAL BEACH PARTY — PAGE 4FARM BABIES — PAGE 4MEMBERS ONLY — PAGE 5 Donor Events Members Only EventsEARLY CHILDHOOD — PAGE 6 Toddler Time Preschool Pals Wild Wonders PreschoolYOUTH — PAGE 7 Group Overnights Zoo Crew Jr. Marine Science Career Day Scout Days Birthday PartiesSCHOOL’S OUT CAMPS — PAGE 8–9 MLK, Jr. Day Camps Early Childhood Grades 1–3 Presidents’ Day Camps Early Childhood Grades 1–3 Spring Break Camps Early Childhood Grades 1–3 Grades 4–6FAMILY — PAGE 10–11 Family Zoo Adventures Animal Play Days Family Nature Club Family OvernightsHOMESCHOOL — PAGE 11 Homeschool AcademyADULT — PAGE 12–13 Adult Nights Out Zoo Camp For Adults Photography Classes Guided Tours Horticulture Tours Fireside Yoga AZUL EventsBACKSTAGE PASS — PAGE 14TRAVEL — PAGE 15 Adult High School Family College

You are receiving this Programs and Events

Guide because you are a valued member of

the Minnesota Zoo family. This publication is

bursting with ways for you to play, connect

with animals and each other, and explore the

natural world all winter and spring! From our

Family Nature Club and School’s Out Camps to

Adult Nights Out and the Beastly Ball, there are

opportunities for every age. No matter what the

weather brings, the Zoo has the perfect forecast

for fun, and your membership is your passport

to where amazing lives, every day.

Membership has its benefits...don’t forget to

enjoy them! Be sure to check out the special

members-only events listed on page 4.

• Free Zoo admission and free parking during regular Zoo hours, plus special member events.

• Your guests receive $2 off adult and $1 off child and senior admission prices.

• Half price admission to more than 100-plus zoos across the country.

• Discounts on education classes, camps, birthday parties and overnights for named members.

• Ten percent discount at Zoo stores on regularly priced merchandise (some exclusions may apply).

• Complimentary IMAX® Director’s Club membership, providing ticket and food discounts.

• Weekly electronic communication to keep you informed and up-to-date.

• For details on all member benefits, or to discover AZUL or donor benefits, visit mnzoo.org.

Dear minnesota ZOO MEMBER

enjoyyour BENEFITS

PRICING KEYZM=Zoo MemberNM=Non MemberAZUL M=AZUL Member

Join kangaroos, emus and wallabies on a real-life Australian walkabout, in the heart of the Minnesota Zoo. Get an up-close look at the outback, with fun activities for kids and families.

Hop on over to the Zoo and experience the land down under, up north.

LEARN MORE AT MNZOO.ORG

Kangaroo crossing MAy 27 - labor day

AND ADVENTURE IS OUTBACK.

sneakpEEK

weekends!May 6–21

AmazingEvents

Farm babiesMar 24 - Apr 30

Escape from the cold and get a taste of the tropics at one of the Zoo’s most popular events. Bring your pail or favorite sand toy and play in Minnesota’s biggest indoor sandbox. Take in a full day of family fun exploring an indoor rainforest teeming with wildlife, along with special activities each weekend.

Gather up your little chicks and celebrate the sights and sounds of spring at the Wells Fargo Family Farm! You’ll coo at adorable piglets, lambs, goat kids, bunnies, chicks and calves. All the cute happens daily, with special family activities each weekend.

TROPICAL BEACH PARTYFeb 18 - Mar 12

Members only — WINTER | SPRING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 5

MEMBERS ONLYMembers Only eventsMembership has its benefits! Don’t miss these special members-only opportunities.

MEMBER APPRECIATION MONDAYS1/2/17, 1/9/17, 2/6/17, 2/13/17, 3/6/17, 3/13/17Enjoy the perks of the quietest days at the Zoo! From November through March, no school groups attend on designated Member Mondays (the first and second Mondays of each month). Receive a 20% discount on food and gift shop purchases, and bring a non-member guest and they will receive a discount ($2 off adult, $1 off child and senior admission prices).

MEMBERS ONLY—BRING A FRIEND FOR HALF PRICE2/21/17–3/13/17Members are invited to bring a friend to Tropical Beach Party for half price! Valid Mondays–Thursdays, February 21–March 13.

Donor EventsDonors make it possible for the Zoo to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. Please consider these very special opportunities to support the Zoo, and if you are already a donor, thank you!

FRIENDS FARM BABIES 4/5/17Join us for the ever-popular Friends-only night at the Wells Fargo Family Farm. Catch a tractor ride all the way from the parking lot to the Farm, and admire chicks, piglets, calves, and lambs, and feed the rambunctious goat kids! Registration is free for Friends members and opens March 5, 2017.

BEASTLY BALL4/29/17Join us on Saturday, April 29, 2017 for the 29th annual Beastly Ball. This year’s theme will focus on the land down under, and celebrate our upcoming summer Australia exhibit. This black tie gala features an extraordinary silent auction, exotic Zoomobile animal guests, and exceptional entertainment and dancing. This is a party with a purpose, with proceeds going to support the Zoo’s work here and around the world to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. Register at mnzoo.org/beastlyball

FRIENDS KANGAROO CROSSING5/23/17Join other Minnesota Zoo Friends for an exclusive after hours experience and walkabout Kangaroo Crossing. Registration is free for Friends members.

TO DISCOVER DONOR BENEFITS, VISIT MNZOO.ORG/DONATE

unwrap amazingthis holiday season.ZOO Memberships & Gift Cards

where amazing lives.every day.

MNZOO.ORG

Toddler TimeRegister at mnzoo.org/toddler–time9:30–10:30 am or 11 am–12 pmZM $15 NM $20Spend some quality time with your toddler at the Minnesota Zoo! Sessions begin with 10 minutes of child-directed exploratory play followed by a Zoo naturalist leading movement and art activities, an interactive story, and an animal encounter (with at least one hands-on experience with a toddler-sized animal), all focusing on the topic of the day.

SUN, SAND, SPIDERS AND SNAKES1/2/17 or 1/7/17

CLIMBING TREES WITH THE ABCS2/4/17 or 2/6/17

SPLISHIN’ AND SPLASHIN’3/4/17 or 3/6/17

EGG–STRAORDINARY ANIMALS4/8/17 or 4/10/17

ANIMAL MOMS5/6/17 or 5/8/17

EYE SPY6/3/17

Wild wonders PreschoolRegister at mnzoo.org/wild-wondersSpring session Mondays, 3/13–5/15/17 9:30 am–12 pm or 1–3:30 pmZM $220 NM $260Wild Wonders Preschool is a unique program that brings the natural world alive! Offered for ten consecutive Mondays, Wild Wonders connects children with nature by encouraging their natural affinity for nature. Throughout this exciting program, children will explore the many wonders of nature first-hand through dramatic play, art, stories, songs and animal encounters! The spring session focuses on our domestic animal friends at the Wells Fargo Family Farm.

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EARLY CHILDHOOD

Preschool PalsRegister at mnzoo.org/preschool-pals9:30–11:30 amZM $20 NM $25These child-only classes are designed specifically with your preschooler in mind as they transition from toddlers to kindergartners! Through child-directed exploration, play, and age-appropriate activities, we will discover the Zoo’s amazing animals and their habitats.

TURTLE PALS1/6/17Dive into the sea for an imaginary trip with a sea turtle, and visit our sea turtles in the shark reef exhibit. We will also journey on land to meet a variety of other turtles.

SEAL PALS1/20/17Discover what makes these marine mammals so marvelous in a class celebrating these critically endangered seals from Hawaii.

PANDA PALS2/3/17Visit our red pandas and discover what makes them similar and different from giant pandas.

OCEAN PALS2/17/17Sea stars, sea horses, and sea turtles, oh my! Discover why “down where it’s wetter, that’s where it’s better” as we explore the colorful world of the coral reef.

LEOPARD PALS3/3/17Is it a cheetah, jaguar, or leopard? Discover what makes leopards different from other big cats and try to “spot” our leopards in a game of hide-and-seek.

TIGER PALS3/17/17What’s black and orange and striped from head to toe? That’s right—a tiger! Learn how they compare to your pet cats at home.

RABBIT PALS4/21/17Hop on in to explore the world of wild and domestic rabbits and other furry friends.

EGG PALS5/5/17Take a peek at some of our newest zoo babies to arrive this spring and discover how animals care for their young.

SHARK PALS5/19/17Designed to be a perfect predator, the shark’s sharp teeth and sensational senses may surprise you!

BirthdayParties

Youth — WINTER | SPRING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 7

Group OvernightsRegister at mnzoo.org/groupsSelect Dates Throughout the Year6:30 pm Friday to 9 am SaturdayALL $47When the sun goes down, some animals go to sleep…but for others, life is just starting to get interesting. After everyone else has gone home, you and your group will get a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Minnesota Zoo, as you find out just what happens deep in the ocean, far into the northern forests, or on the family farm after dark. In our group overnights, kids ages 8–18 and their chaperones get a nose-to-nose encounter with our animals and learn exciting things about nature and wildlife. An evening snack, breakfast, and a t-shirt will be provided.

Zoo Crew Jr.Register at mnzoo.org/zoo-crew-jr2/4/17, 3/4/17, 4/1/17 9 am–12 pmZM $100 NM $120Come and learn about the animals and all the care that goes into keeping them happy and healthy during this popular class designed especially for 4th–7th grades. Each month we cover a different area at the Zoo with hands-on activities, a behind the scenes tour and a close up encounter with an animal. The spring session covers Minnesota animals, the tropics, and marine mammals.

Marine Science Career DayRegister at mnzoo.org/career-day5/13/17 9 am–2:30 pmZM $35 NM $40Explore marine science-related zoo careers in this Career Day program geared toward 7th–10th grade students. We will observe some of the daily tasks of the aquarium and marine mammal staff, visit behind the scenes areas, and have the opportunity to talk with zoo professionals about their training and careers.

SCOUT DAYSRegister at mnzoo.org/groupsJoin us for a special day dedicated to scouts! Work toward a badge and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Zoo with your family or fellow troop members.

CUB SCOUT DAY2/18/17 9 am-4 pmZM Free NM $9/scout $13/leader Pricing applies if wearing Boy Scout uniform

GIRL SCOUT DAY3/4/17 9 am-4 pmZM Free NM $9/scout $13/leader Pricing applies if wearing sash, vest, or Girl Scout pin

YOUTH

Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Minnesota Zoo!Saturdays and Sundays

10–11:30 am and 1–2:30 pmZM $300 NM $350

PREMIUM PARTIESPony Parties (available May–Sep 2017)

ZM $360 NM $400 Overnight Parties (available year-round)

ZM $705 NM $825mnzoo.org/birthdayparties

8

School’s Out CampRegister at mnzoo.org/schools-out-camps

When school is out, the Zoo is IN! The Minnesota Zoo’s camps are entertaining, educational, and unforgettable. Children enjoy and engage in activities, learning and

experiences about the diversity of life in their specific theme-based camp.

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY CAMPSRegister at mnzoo.org/schools-out-camps1/16/17

EARLY CHILDHOODZM $20 NM $25COOL CRITTERS9:30–11:30 amWinter is paradise in Minnesota for some critters, but not every animal would agree. Discover why and what it takes for a critter to keep their cool during winter.

GRADES 1–3ZM $45 NM $55AMAZING ANIMAL ADVENTURES9 am–3 pmEmbark on a Madagascar mission, a rescue on the Amazon River, and a penguin safari in South Africa.

PRESIDENTS’ DAY CAMPSRegister at mnzoo.org/schools-out-camps2/20/17

EARLY CHILDHOODZM $20 NM $25LOVEABLE LEMURS9:30–11:30 amWho has a face like a fox, a tail like a raccoon, and lives in Madagascar? Explore the world of lemurs and discover what makes them so cool and loveable.

GRADES 1–3ZM $45 NM $55ANIMAL OLYMPICS9 am–3 pmFrom the smallest to the largest, the slowest to the fastest, the longest and the highest, we’ll explore the fascinating diversity of the wild world of animals. Let the games begin!

Watch for yourZoo Camp catalog or visit

mnzoo.org/zoocamp

Tiered registration opens Jan. 23.

Summer Zoo Camp

school’s out camp — WINTER | SPRING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 9

EARLY CHILDHOODZM $20 NM $25ALL ABOUT MOSSY THE BOX TURTLE3/27/17 or 4/3/179:30–11:30 amHe’s no ninja turtle, but author Jan Brett’s Mossy the box turtle will help us discover the difference between reptiles and amphibians.

TO AFRICA AND BACK!3/28/17 or 4/4/179:30–11:30 amTravel to Africa and follow the honeyguide bird through Jan Brett’s tale of the African plains. Visit the Zoo’s African penguins to see how they swim, preen, and eat.

RESIDENTS OF THE RAINFOREST3/29/17 or 4/5/179:30–11:30 amEnjoy Jan Brett’s The Umbrella and visit some of its stars on the Zoo’s Tropics Trail along with the other amazing creatures that make their home in the rainforest.

ANIMALS SHOULD NEVER EVER WEAR CLOTHES!3/30/17 or 4/6/179:30–11:30 amMeet the animal friends of Jan Brett’s loveable storybook character, Hedgie, including some farm friends and inhabitants of Russia’s Grizzly Coast. Make and take a hedgehog planter and watch it grow!

DO NOT FEED THE WILD ANIMALS!3/31/17 or 4/7/179:30–11:30 amCreate an armadillo of your own to take home based on Jan Brett’s Armadillo Rodeo story. Look for animals from the story as you explore the Medtronic Minnesota Trail and learn why wild animals don’t make good pets.

GRADES 1–3ZM $45 NM $55PLAY ALL DAY3/27/17 or 4/3/179 am–3 pmAnimals like to play for many of the same reasons humans like to play. We will create our own games and sharpen our survival play skills. Put your animal “toy” making abilities to the test and watch as one of our lucky farm friends plays with your toy.

BE A GROUPIE3/28/17 or 4/4/179 am–3 pmLike you and your friends, many critters are social and like spending time together. Observe groups of animals from around the Zoo, and try to understand the rules of their play. Then develop your own games and create your own rules of play.

BIRD IS THE WORD!3/29/17 or 4/5/179 am–3 pmBirds have a special way of living together and playing together. Watch the Zoo’s Wings Financial Bird Show then meet the trainers for a close-up look at how the trainers work and play with the birds at the Zoo.

THE COOL PARENTS3/30/17 or 4/6/179 am–3 pmParents and family teach us so many awesome things. Do you think animals learn from their parents and family members? Take a closer look at our Snow monkeys, penguins, and others to see if life for them is serious learning or all play!

LEARNING ANIMAL ABC’S3/31/17 or 4/7/179 am–3 pmWhen humans learn the basics, it’s about the ABCs. When animals learn the basics, it’s about survival. Visit the bears and discover how they learn the secrets to survival.

GRADES 4–6ZM $45 NM $55SAVING ANIMALS: INTRO TO WILDLIFE CONSERVATION3/27/17 or 4/3/179 am–3 pmThis is where it all begins! What makes something an endangered species, and what does conservation look like at the Zoo? Get the answers you need to become a wildlife warrior in this lively, action-packed day.

BECOMING CITIZEN SCIENTISTS3/28/17 or 4/4/179 am–3 pmSpend the day as a citizen scientist and get your hands dirty collecting and analyzing data for real-world, ongoing animal research projects! Understanding animals in the wild is usually the first step to protecting them—are you ready to step into the role of scientist?

IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN3/29/17 or 4/5/179 am–3 pmExplore the many daily personal choices people make to benefit the environment, such as recycling, saving energy, and planting trees. Discover simple things you can do to help wildlife at home and in your community.

WHEN WILDLIFE HELPS HUMANS3/30/17 or 4/6/179 am–3 pmConserving wildlife and their habitats isn’t just good for the animals, it can help humans, too! Through special talks and activities, learn about some of the many benefits we get from the natural world.

SPREADING THE WORD3/31/17 or 4/7/179 am–3 pmBecome a wildlife warrior, full of powerful knowledge! One of the best things to do with that knowledge is share it with others. We’ll exercise our creative sides today as we try out different ways of sharing wildlife conservation stories and facts.

SPRING BREAK CAMPSRegister at mnzoo.org/schools-out-camps

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FAMILYFamily Zoo AdventuresRegister at mnzoo.org/family-zoo-adventures1–3 pmZM $19 NM $25These classes are especially designed for young people (ages 4–9) and their favorite adults. Our activities, excursions, crafts and games will make learning fun for young and old alike. The whole Zoo is our classroom, and visits to behind-the-scenes areas with zookeepers and trainers will make each class special.

ALL ABOUT AFRICA1/14/17Africa is a huge continent with an amazing diversity of species, and our Tropics Trail is home to several of them. From fuzzy bats to calm crocodiles to boisterous lemurs, we’ll learn about the Zoo’s many different African animals and their habitats.

WEIRD WORLD UNDER THE WAVES2/26/17Discovery Bay is full of weird and wonderful animals, from moon jellyfish to live coral, sea turtles to seahorses. In this class, we’ll explore the unique lifestyles of ocean creatures, from tiny shrimp to 500-pound seals.

BARREL OF SNOW MONKEYS3/11/17Monkeys are mischievous, playful, and a lot of fun to learn about. In this action-packed adventure, you’ll get to meet a zookeeper who works with the monkeys every day, go behind-the-scenes, get up close with a special animal, and more.

SPRING ON THE FARM4/8/17Spring is coming, and so are baby farm animals! Celebrate the start of a new season and the re-opening of the farm. You’ll get “in the mud” as everything is prepared for the fruitful season ahead, and meet all of the newborns.

A MINNESOTA EARTH DAY4/23/17Celebrate Earth Day by exploring the plants and animals of our own beautiful state! We’ll get outside and explore the Zoo’s forests with some fun special gear that our field researchers use, like motion trap cameras, and collect data that actual scientists will be able to use.

PENGUIN PARTY!5/6/17Dive into some fun activities and exploration, including a peek at our penguin kitchen. Touch penguin eggs and feathers, and learn all about the unique penguins of the African coast and how they differ from Antarctic penguins.

GRIN AND “BEAR” IT5/28/17These big north woods residents are awake and getting ready for summer. Join us to learn all about our black bears and grizzly bears, get a behind-the-scenes tour of their kitchen, and meet one of our zookeepers who works with and trains our bears.

ADVENTURE IN AUSTRALIA6/10/17We’re going down under! The Minnesota Zoo is bringing Australia to the Zoo for the summer. Learn about Australian animals, including the wonders of marsupials, and practice your Australian vocabulary while you learn a new game.

HOORAY FOR HORSESAT THE FARM6/25/17Bring your little horse-lover for some hands-on fun. We’ll meet the Zoo's horses, help with some barn chores, and talk to our amazing horse staff. You’ll even learn more about different kinds of horses, and how your height measures up to theirs.

Animal Play Days

Come join in the play all day long andlearn why it’s important for the animals.

Free with admissionVisit mnzoo.org/animal-play-days

homeschoolmnzoo.org/homeschool

The Minnesota Zoo offers a variety of programs for homeschool students and families to enrich your teaching year.

HOMESCHOOL ACADEMYWINTER SESSION—TROPICAL RAINFORESTSMondays, Jan 3—Mar 6, 2017 (six sessions, no class on February 20th)Homeschool Students Ages 9–12Individual Session ZM$20 NM$25 Whole Series ZM $100 NM $125Warm up this winter in the rainforest! This hands-on, inquiry based six-week program will explore this important ecosystem, rich in biodiversity, with the Tropics Trail as our classroom. We will define the components of the rainforest environment, test a few survival strategies, discuss some unique natural partnerships, and understand the human dependence and impact on this incredible natural community. Animal encounters, fun activities and tours make this a program not to miss!

Family — WINTER | SPRING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 11

Family overnightsRegister at mnzoo.org/animals-after-dark6:30 pm–9 amZM $47 NM $55In our family overnights, kids age five and older with their families get a nose-to-nose encounter with our animals and learn exciting things about nature and the environment. An evening snack, breakfast, and a t-shirt will be provided.

FARM5/5/17Take a trip to a simpler life, in this program filled with hands-on farm activities and a campfire under the stars at the Wells Fargo Family Farm. Learn all about cows, goats, horses, and more from one of our farm keepers, take a ride on our tram, explore the grain elevator, watch an early morning cow milking, and even help with the morning chores! Roasting marshmallows over the fire and family games round out this amazing experience.

FORESTS6/9/17As the sun sets and the stars come out, the forest changes…What happens between dusk and dawn at the Zoo…and in the wild northern forests from here to Alaska? See our enormous grizzly bears up close, prepare a special treat for them, and talk to zoo keepers. Walk the Medtronic Minnesota Trail after hours to see our wolves, coyotes, and more.

OCEANS1/20/17, 2/10/17, 3/10/17, 4/14/17This popular overnight program in Discovery Bay will take you and your family “below the surface” to explore the mysteries of ocean life, from monk seals to sharks to sea turtles. Visit cool places behind-the-scenes, meet a zookeeper or aquarist, and touch sharks and sea stars. Learn all about marine animals and their watery world, and fall asleep as sharks go swimming by.

Family Nature ClubRegister at mnzoo.org/family-nature-clubZM $3 NM $4 plus applicable admission and parkingBe a part of our Family Nature Club program! Each two-hour session will encourage families to safely experience and explore the wonders of nature together.

SNOW MUCH FUN! 1/8/1710 am–12 pmOur animals have a natural winter coat. Warm up this winter by experimenting with wool! Have you ever been curious about what we do with the sheep wool or Angora rabbit fur from the farm? Learn a real farm trade of spinning and dyeing wool. We’ll even try our hands at knitting.

FEATHERS AREN’T JUST FOR FLYING 2/12/1710 am–12 pmThe Great Backyard Bird Count is just around the corner. Take a winter walk with us as we look to the sky for our feathered friends. Meet some of our resident birds and learn how you can get involved locally with helping our native backyard birds.

THE SIMPLE THINGS3/12/172–4 pmEverybody likes to play with rocks, sticks, and leaves. Join us as we figure out what can we do with these simple natural items. Build a tower, make a mobile, or make marbled art with them—the sky’s the limit when it comes to using our imagination with nature!

BACKYARD BUDDIES4/9/172–4 pmBefore you know it we’ll be ready to plant in our gardens. Looking for cool ways to attract wildlife to your backyards? Explore our gardens, and make and take an up-cycled bird feeder or a bee hotel to help pollinate your flowers.

CELEBRATE WITH CYCLING!5/14/177:30–9:30 amIt’s National Bike month! What better way to start off your Mother’s Day by celebrating your mom and animal moms with a bike ride through and around the Zoo. Ride out to the farm and see the mamas and their babies along with whatever else has come to life.

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AdultAdult Nights OutRegister at mnzoo.org/adult-night-out1/21/17, 3/17/17, 4/21/17, 5/19/17, 6/15/17ZM Free NM $10Experience a kid-free version of the Zoo while exploring indoor and outdoor trails. Grab a cocktail and enjoy an evening stroll through the Zoo, then stay for a free Our World Speaker Series conservation talk at 7pm. 18+ to attend, 21+ to drink (no exceptions)

zoo camp for adultsRegister at mnzoo.org/adult-camp1–4 pmZM $27 NM $35 18+Why should kids have all the fun? These programs, for adults only, explore all kinds of Zoo-related topics with guest speakers, behind-the-scenes tours, hands-on projects, and other interactive experiences. We explain the science, the inner workings of the Zoo, and the stories of our animals in new ways.

WINTER CAMPSALT AND FRESH: AN EXPLORATION OF WATER AND THE ANIMALS THAT LIVE IN IT1/28/17From sharks to seahorses, mudpuppies to northern pike, the Zoo is home to dozens of species that depend on watery homes. Keeping them happy and healthy requires a complex understanding of water. In this fun, hands-on class, try your hand at chemistry and biology challenges—and get hands-on with some marine creatures, too!

ANIMAL STORIES: CREATIVE WRITING AND STORYTELLING WITH ANIMALS AS INSPIRATION2/12/17From early childhood, we’ve all been surrounded by books and tales that use animals to tell important stories in relatable, funny, or emotional ways. Explore some examples of folk tales and children’s books that use animals to relate a deeper message. Animal visitors in the classroom will provide us with inspiration as we try fun writing exercises that will get even brand-new writers putting things on paper (and have experienced writers stretching their wings). Mugs of hot cocoa and tea will be provided. Any sharing of work will be completely optional.

SPRING CAMPSPECIES SURVIVAL: WHERE ZOO ANIMALS COME FROM, WHERE THEY GO, AND WHY4/9/17When you start asking questions about the economy and logistics of zoos, you quickly realize that the details are wrapped up in a tale of conservation. Get all of your questions answered as you try some activities and learn more about Species Survival Plans, breeding for conservation, and the relationships between Zoos and wild places. Hear from different Minnesota Zoo staff as we explore the chain of Zoo decisions.

Photography ClassesRegister at mnzoo.org/photographyKeep your eye on the website for dates in January, March, and May of 2017!13+These classes offer photography instruction for all levels, as well as the chance to photograph at the Zoo when it’s closed to the public. Learn and practice new tricks of the trade, and get that perfect shot without the crowds. These classes are offered on different trails of the Zoo throughout the year.

Guided TourSRegister at mnzoo.org/guided–tours10:30–11:30 am$8 plus applicable Zoo admission and parkingEach month, one of our education naturalists leads a tour of one of the trails at the Zoo. While covering a wide variety of fun animal knowledge, they’ll also focus on a particular theme, relevant to that part of the Zoo and their own expertise.

MONTHLY TRAIL TOUR: DISCOVERY BAY1/14/17, 4/8/17

MONTHLY TRAIL TOUR: TROPICS TRAIL2/11/17

MONTHLY TRAIL TOUR: MN TRAIL3/11/17

MONTHLY TRAIL TOUR: RUSSIA’S GRIZZLY COAST5/13/17

Horticulture TourRegister at mnzoo.org/horticulture–tour2/2/17, 5/8/175–6:30 pmZM $12 NM $15 16+We’re not just a zoo, we’re the Minnesota Zoological Garden. Botanists and plant–lovers, come on out to learn more about the amazing variety of plants along our Tropics Trail.

Fireside Yoga Register at mnzoo.org/adult–yoga1/9/17M $15 NM $18 13+(Zoo admission not included)Break out cow and cat pose and downward-facing dog at the Minnesota Zoo! Practice your best animal poses, stretch, and relax, all with a certified yoga instructor in the cozy Maritz Family Lodge on the Medtronic Minnesota Trail. These classes are perfect for total beginners and advanced practitioners alike, with small classes and plenty of modification options.

Adult — WINTER | SPRING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 13

azul EventsLearn more at mnzoo.org/azulAZUL is a community of Minnesota Zoo young advocates who are passionate about saving wildlife.

AZUL WARM UP IN THE WILDRegister at mnzoo.org/azul2/18/17 6–9 pmZM $20 AZUL M FREEThis adults-only (ages 21+) tropical event features a night of great food and drinks, animals, beach games, and so much more along the Minnesota Zoo’s hot and humid Tropics Trail. Experience the Zoo after hours, play in the sand, and have a cocktail with a colobus monkey at this tropical beach party.

AZUL WILD NIGHTRegister at mnzoo.org/azul6/3/17 7 pm–midnightALL $55 VIP $75The Mansion at UptownJoin AZUL for their 6th annual Wild Night gala at in Minneapolis. Come for a night of fantastic entertainment, unique auction items, food and drink, Zoomobile animals, and more. This is the wildest young professionals’ gala in the Twin Cities for a great cause: saving wildlife. Ages 21+.

BAT EDVENTURE—MYSTERY CAVESee travel programs on p. 155/7/17ALL $95

Volunteers make a huge impact

at the Minnesota Zoo.

Opportunities abound for

teenagers through senior-agers

looking for fun, unique and

interesting volunteer positions.

Learn more at

mnzoo.org/get-involved/volunteer

Volunteerat the Zoo

make your next picinic a

wildexperience!

Party with a purpose!

952.431.9585 or parties@mnzoo.org or

mnzoo.org/rent-the-zoo Join us today to save wildlife—locally and globally.

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BACKSTAGE WITH PENGUINS8 years or older with paying adult3/18/17, 3/26/17, 4/1/17, 4/23/17, 5/7/17, 5/27/17, 6/4/17, 6/17/17, 6/25/1710–11:15 amALL $125Waddle in and get a little closer to our penguins from the 3M Penguins of the African Coast exhibit.

BACKSTAGE WITH BEARS8 years or older with paying adult4/22/17, 5/6/17, 5/20/17, 6/3/17, 6/24/178:30–10:15 amALL $150Are you ready to get a little closer to our three bears? Come join Sadie, Kenai and Haines—the stars of our Russia’s Grizzly Coast exhibit—during this interactive education program at the Minnesota Zoo!

BACKSTAGE WITH BIRDS4 years or older with paying adult1/6/17, 2/11/17, 3/10/17, 4/15/17, 5/12/17, 6/10/178–9 amALL $75Swoop on in and get up close and personal with the stunning variety of birds along the Minnesota Zoo’s Tropics Trail!

BACKSTAGE WITH SHARKS AND RAYS8 years or older with paying adult1/14/17, 2/4/17, 3/4/17, 4/1/17, 5/6/17, 5/20/17, 6/3/17, 6/17/1711 am–12:15 pmALL $100Join an aquarist at the Minnesota Zoo for a rare opportunity to actually feed our 7-foot stingrays yourself, from above the Shark Reef tank in Discovery Bay.

BACKSTAGE WITH SEA OTTERS8 years or older with paying adult1/7/17, 1/22/17, 2/11/17, 3/19/17, 4/15/17, 4/29/1712:30–1:45 pm ALL $150Join a sea otter trainer and get a little closer while feeding one of our sea otters behind the scenes of our award winning Russia’s Grizzly Coast exhibit.

Each Backstage Pass is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience designed to foster positive, lifelong connections to the natural world.

The Minnesota Zoo is a place where

memories are made.

Call 952.431.9363to start planning this

once-in-a-lifetime moment.

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BACKSTAGE PASSRegister at mnzoo.org/backstage-pass

travel — WINTER | SPRING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS 15

AdultBAT EDVENTURE-MYSTERY CAVE5/7/17ALL $95Join us for this one-day adventure to Mystery Cave State Park in southeastern Minnesota. Enjoy a day packed with the beauty of underground geology while learning about conservation efforts to preserve Minnesota’s bats from the recent arrival of white-nose syndrome. Seize the opportunity to explore Minnesota’s largest cave in an itinerary specially designed for the Minnesota Zoo and AZUL (the Zoo’s young advocates organization). You need not be an AZUL member to attend.

GALAPAGOS AND MACHU PICCHU4/17–4/29/17ALL $3,800 plus airfareExplore two of the wonders of South America: the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador and the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in the Andes of Peru. This trip is a spectacular combination of stunning wildlife, human history, and archeology.

NORTHERN MN: WILD WOLF EDVENTURE2/24–2/26/17ZM $550 NM $575We’ll start our journey at the Minnesota Zoo with a wolf zookeeper visiting the Zoo’s wolves. From there, we’ll continue our three-day, two-night adventure in Ely, MN where we will gain a new familiarity with one of our state’s most charismatic species through telemetry flights, dog-sledding, and more.

PLATTE RIVER-CRANE SAFARIALL 3/8–3/10/17ALL $740 The Minnesota Zoo and the Crane Trust are excited to invite you on an ancient flight of discovery. National Geographic has called it one of the greatest wildlife phenomena in North America. 50,000 cranes come, as they have for thousands of years, to this incomparable stretch of the Platte River to rest, feed, and gather in astonishing numbers before pushing on to their breeding grounds in the north. Now, as never before, you can experience the wonder of North America’s great sandhill crane migration in this unique itinerary developed only for the Minnesota Zoo.

Travel to unique and beautiful places of the world with a Zoo professional at your side. The Minnesota Zoo’s travel programs combine adventure and education; you’ll explore amazing places locally and globally while learning about wildlife, conservation, and local culture.

high schoolBELIZE—MARINE ECOLOGY & RAINFOREST CONSERVATION7/15–7/23/17ALL $3,099 plus airfareExplore ecosystems from coral reefs to mangrove forests, and sea grass beds to tropical rainforests. Encounter incredible wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins and hundreds of species of tropical fish, meet researchers who track jaguars in the rainforest, and learn how to make chocolate!

FamilyNORTHERN MN—WILD WOLF EDVENTURE3/10–3/12/17ZM $550 NM $575We’ll start our journey at the Minnesota Zoo with a wolf zookeeper visiting the Zoo’s wolves. From there, we’ll continue our three-day, two-night adventure in Ely, MN where we will gain a new familiarity with one of our state’s most charismatic species through telemetry flights, dog-sledding, and more

SAVE THE DATECOLLEGETANZANIA WILDLIFE SAFARI1/2018Save the date for this ultimate adventure and watch our website mnzoo.org/travel for specific travel dates and fees.

TravelRegister at mnzoo.org/travel

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Programsand Events

2017 WINTER/SPRING

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