Education Programs
The Park and Zoo is an educational facility that encourages exploration and connection to nature in an outdoor environment. We welcome thousands of students and see over a quarter million visitors each year.
Come connect and learn about the animals and plants that live here and how to protect them.
PLEASE NOTE: For safety, liability, and capacity purposes, ALL TEACHERS are required and encouraged to fill out a booking form, even if they do not want an education program or picnic shelter.
Zoo Academy |
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These sessions are available for Grades 4-7 and support the Ontario curriculum. To register for the Zoo Academy day program, please fill out our request form or download the application. ZOO ACADEMY: refers to a 4-hour visit running from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Wed, Thurs, and Fri only) |
Zoo Trek |
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To register for the Zoo Trek program, please fill out our request form or download the application. ZOO TREK: refers to a 2-hour visit running sometime between 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Wed, Thurs, and Fri only) |
Turtle Trek |
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The program starts with a Zoo Trek and is completed by the OTCC turtle and habitat conservation program. To book a class, please fill our our request form. NOTE: This program is currently on hold until further notice. |
Zoo Tour |
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Tours are available seasonally upon request and include interesting personal background information on animal species, their habitats, and conservation status. To register for a Guided Tour, please download the application or fill out our request form. ZOO TOUR: refers to a 1-hour guided tour running sometime between 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Wed, Thurs, and Fri only) |
Zoo Crew |
UPDATE: Our winter 2023-24 Zoo Crew session is set to go live online at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, September 25, 2023! Visit the Zoo Crew page for more details. This parent-tot program is a fun way for you and your preschool child/grandchild to connect with nature. For ages 2 to 5, each session includes songs, games and a Zoo Trek or animal encounter that will get you and your tot excited for nature. In the summer, we offer six sessions every Wednesday and Friday morning from July to August. In the winter, we offer six sessions on the first Saturday of the month from November to April. Registration is $80 for one child, or $100 for one additional sibling, and includes your very own zoo crew T-shirt. Limited spaces are available and they always fill up quickly! |
The Bondar Challenge |
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This two-day summer camp connects students to nature through the art of photography, learning how to take great nature photos, use different camera techniques, and appreciate nature at the zoo and on local riverfront trails. Camp fee is $70, with just $30 more for a second family member, and includes entry into the National Bondar Challenge Nature Photography Competition. Recommended for ages 9-15. 2024 dates coming soon! |
Regular events |
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Otter Enrichment Sessions take place every day at 1:30 p.m. year-round at our world-class otter exhibit. Stop by to learn more about these amazing animals and watch the fun as they receive their afternoon enrichment.
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Placements and co-ops |
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The Park and Zoo has helped hundreds of students complete their education through on-the-job placements and work experience. We are proud to be able to offer animal care, education, grounds keeping, business development and administrative placement opportunities annually. There are a limited number of placement opportunities each year, so be sure to apply early. If you are interested in doing a placement with us, please fill out the Placement Request Form. |
This structured program
Perfect for you to compliment a class trip to the zoo. Students participate in a short in-class program and chance animal encounter followed by a guided tour through the zoo. 
This joint-facility day program gives you the best of the Park and Zoo and The Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC).
Join our knowledgeable tour guides for an interpretive walk through the zoo.
Once again, the Otonabee Conservation Authority and Park and Zoo teamed up in 2023 to offer the 
Print your own Otter colouring sheet. We would love to see your artwork. Send us a photo on social media.
Learn more about the importance of this indicator species and how to help protect them to celebrate World Otter Day!
- Why is this species of otters important?
- NAROs are great indicators or keystone species for watersheds. Their presence indicates the presence of good, clean water and healthy habitat.
- They are a true wildlife success story! As habitat/watershed conservation and restrictions on hunting/trapping have taken place over the United States, otter numbers have continued to rise over the last 50 years.
2. What are some special adaptations of the species?
- Have webbed feet and a propeller-like tail for quick swimming
- Can slow down heart rate to remain under water 6-8 minutes during dives
- High metabolism and very dense fur to stay warm in water and colder climates
- Nictitating membrane like built in goggles for seeing underwater
- Long whiskers for sensing prey underwater
- Can close their nostrils during dives
3. Threats to their environment:
- Destruction or pollution to watersheds
- Excessive or unregulated trapping
- Declining fishery
4. What can I do to help the NARO?
- Keep local watersheds clean from litter and pollution, reduce what you use and throw away
- Help clean up litter when out for a walk in your neighborhood
- Volunteer or support those who are protecting habitats and educating people on the importance of otters