Minnesota Zoomobile
The Zoomobile is the Minnesota Zoo’s outreach effort. Trained naturalists bring animals and educate on various topics: the animals themselves, their habitats, and taking care of our natural world. These were highly successful events which allowed both children and adults a close-up view of various animals, especially Minnesota animals (great horned owl, a mouse, giant African millipedes, a skink, an opossum, etc.) as well as get hands-on experience as attendees were allowed to touch and/or ask questions about each animal. The visits were highly successful and have encouraged children to investigate animals further by checking out books on animals and the natural world around them.
Partner Organization(s) Contribution/Role in the Program: The Minnesota Zoo provided naturalists and animals for these educational programs.
The goal was that children attending the program would gain a broader base of knowledge about animals, their habitats, and life at the Minnesota Zoo.
Sample of comments from parents whose children attended:"Learned how different animals live.""Learned about habitats.""Not afraid of spiders or snakes as much after this."“Excellent program, really enjoyed.”“The presenter was energetic and flexible with the children.”“More events like this at the library during the winter.”“Thank you so much for offering this! What a neat thing for cold winter days. The presenter was entertaining and knowledgable.”“Learned that there is a lot to learn!”“It’s nice that you do this kind of thing. Thanks!”“Engaging for all ages.”“Great presentation; good use of Legacy funds.”“We loved the program!”