ANIMAL 

ENCOUNTERS

Hear from our experts, ask questions, meet your favorite animal and discover something new during these exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences!

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo has a commitment to providing our visitors with high quality, safe learning experiences that create memories last a lifetime and foster a respect for wildlife and nature conservation.

Animal encounters offer an opportunity for you to learn more about an animal, observe and, in some cases, interact with an individual animal and the zookeeper(s) caring for the species. Your exclusive encounter will allow you to engage with our dedicated professional staff and learn about the attentive care the animal receives, their behaviors, their unique features and the zoo’s extraordinary work to help save threatened and endangered species.

For more information or to reserve your encounter, please contact Heidi Strong, Director of Development

hstrong@rosamondgiffordzoo.org | (315) 435-8511 x8526

Encounters must be scheduled a minimum of 2 weeks in advance

Penguin Encounters

Visit with some of our favorite feathered friends at Penguin Coast. This intimate meeting with a Humboldt penguin ambassador and zookeeper will provide a glimpse into the daily care the colony receives.

• Each encounter is $50 per person for up to 6 guests. Minimum of two guests.

• This experience may last up to 30 minutes

• Guests minimum age is 5 years old (accompanied by an adult).

• Masks are required by all guests.

• Photography is not allowed indoors.  

• Rain, Snow or SHINE. Encounters run in all weather. Closed-toed shoes are required.

• Admission to Rosamond Gifford Zoo is included.

• Encounters are non-refundable, reservations may be changed up to 3 days before the scheduled date.

Sloth Encounters

Hang with a Hoffmann’s two-toed sloth!

Have you ever wondered how much time a sloth spends upside down, or how long it takes a sloth to eat? Here’s your chance to find out. During your time with this fan favorite you will learn what goes into the daily care of our sloth ambassador.

• ​Each encounter is $50 per person for up to six (6) guests.  Minimum of two guests.

• This experience may last up to 30 minutes.

• Open to guests of all ages. Ages 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

• Masks are required by all guests.

• Practice smiling with your eyes as touching is not allowed.

• Closed-toed shoes are required.

• Be sure to document the experience by grabbing a photo or snap a selfie with a sloth.

• Admission to Rosamond Gifford Zoo is included.

• Encounters are non-refundable, reservations may be changed up to 3 days before the scheduled date.