A trip to the zoo offers life science learning experiences year-round with a variety of programs. Various animal feedings and demonstrations are included in your admission. Scholarships may be available.

Teachers, during your next zoo visit, your students can become our newest class of recruits! Enroll your young scientists in this immersive experience where they will earn their “spots and stripes” by completing in-zoo challenges.

In Animal Academy programs, concepts such as adaptations, ecosystems and life cycles come alive as recruits utilize the Zoo’s animal ambassadors to investigate these science topics. Your scientists-in-training will receive a special mission and explore the Zoo alongside their Academy instructor, applying critical thinking and science skills while working toward their spots and stripes badge.

Three Animal Academy program options are available. Each class is 75 minutes and can accommodate a maximum of 35 students and a minimum of 15 students.

Animal Academy: Adaptations (1st-3rd grades)
Animal Academy: Ecosystems (2nd-3rd grades)
Animal Academy: Life Cycles (3rd grade)

Explore the diverse life cycles of insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals and how Denver Zoo provides animal care at every phase. (Grades 4 -6)

Join your Denver Zoo Nature Guide on a virtual bug safari. See bugs in action and explore their homes

Zoo educators introduce two Denver Zoo animals and explore their unique characteristics and personalities, through the lens of animal care and training. This program is easily adaptable to various groups and settings.

Zoo educators introduce two live animal ambassadors and help students use science skills to explore the topic you choose: animal characteristics, adaptations for survival in native habitats, or animal care and training – including their unique personalities!

Learn how and why animals move in different ways through role-playing exercises. Meet and observe animals that move in various ways.

You don’t need to travel to explore diverse habitats of the world. Let Denver Zoo educators be your guide as you compare and contrast two different animal habitats. Learn what makes a habitat a home for its animal residents in this engaging program.

Looking for an amazing way to engage learners and spark enthusiasm? Ask them to solve a real-world problem that really matters! With our new Virtual Classroom Conservation Challenge, you and up to 50 students will work with Denver Zoo animal care and conservation professionals to address the dramatic decline of the boreal toad. With vetted educational resources and access to experts, your students will be inspired to make a difference for these endangered, native-to-Colorado amphibians!

Unique virtual opportunity
3–5-week self-paced timeline
Problem-based learning style
Access to experts + resources
Live Expert Panel with chat capabilities
Optional add-on Live Events!

Join the fictional Animal Academy as new recruits and earn your Spots and Stripes badge! Your mission?  Explore animal adaptations, ecosystems, and lifecycles by making observations, asking questions, and finding connections! Animal Academy Virtual Event dates coming soon! Contact dzeducation@denverzoo.org for more information