Learn about the various species of venomous reptiles that live on Tumamoc Hill with Desert Laboratory Community Outreach Assistant and President of the Tucson Herpetological Society Robert A. Villa. Located...
Discover the magic of our desert in summer with a chance to see critters on the move and possibly monsoon-related flowers and blooms. Saguaros, cholla, legume trees, shrubs and possibly flowers are on the agenda for a discussion on life cycles and adaptations. Of course, there will be birds, lizards, bugs and other animals to talk about, as well. The route...
Looking to get out on the water, but don’t want to do it alone? Just want to spend some quality paddle time on the lake? We’ve got just the thing! Sign up for this morning kayak excursion on Lake Pleasant. We’ll begin at the Castle Creek (4-lane) boat ramp. From there, we’ll head north, paddling our way up Castle Creek. Along the way, we’ll keep...
Step into a tranquil morning at Butterfly Wonderland, where photographers (18+) can capture breathtaking images of butterflies, birds, and reptiles in their lush rainforest habitat. With special access before the doors open to the public, this rare opportunity offers perfect lighting and peaceful surroundings for stunning shots. Director of Animal Care & Entomologist Derek Kellogg...
ZOO ADMISSION BOGO DEAL IS INCLUDED in the price of the Highland Cow encounter! Enjoy a full day at the zoo the day of your encounter AND receive an additional...
Relax and stay cool inside the Nature Center as Ranger Nikki leads a presentation on some of the trees, shrubs, flowers and cacti that have sustained desert inhabitants for hundreds of years. The program consists of a slideshow along with select plant specimens to examine and even a few product samples to try. If time allows, we will...
Leaves come in a variety of colors and shapes. Let's see if we can use the shapes to create leaf creatures. If you have interesting leaves in your yard, please...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
Experience the opportunity of a lifetime with our Capybara Encounter! Come meet Chewy or BB and their care team at Shipwreck Cove. This encounter will give you the opportunity to...
Experience the best dressed encounter opportunity at Wildlife World Zoo! Meet one of our endangered African Penguins and their trainers in the Wild and Wonderful aquarium building in front of the penguin exhibit. This encounter will give you the opportunity to find out what it takes to care for these incredible animals. Learn fun facts...
We have open the space outside for everyone to exchange and share anything and everything for your gardens. Seeds, pots , plants and harvest.
Explore the science of life through hands-on biology activities! Plus—spark curiosity while earning your Fun Biology Patch. Girl Scouts will investigate living things, discover how plants and animals grow and...
Cool down the desert heat with refreshing herbal drinks that truly support hydration. Learn about key cooling and mineral-rich herbs. We will demonstrate simple methods for making iced herbal infusions and share practical tips for staying well in our hot, dry climate. Enjoy a tasting of several recipes and home recipes to create your own...
In this class, join me to learn how to create beautiful butterflies that feel colorful, whimsical, and like they are flying off the page! We will explore both loose and controlled techniques for creating different effects for our butterflies, so every beginner should be able to find a process they feel comfortable with. Total beginners...
Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the Museum of Northern Arizona collections at our annual Easton Collection Center Open House. This year’s theme is Artist Hopid. Explore the art and legacy...
Have you ever wanted to meet one of our Sea Lions up close and personal? Join us for a WILD encounter at Wildlife World Zoo! Learn what it takes to...
Explore the colorful world of butterflies, and other fascinating bugs in this abstract watercolor class! Participants will experiment with watercolor techniques, vibrant colors, and creative shapes to create unique insect-inspired...
Embark on a fiery adventure to unearth the explosive secrets of volcanoes that shaped our world. Wrap it up by crafting your very own groovy lava lamp! Ages 6-12. Supplies and seats are limited– first come, first served! Supplies and seating are limited.
Have you ever wanted to meet a sloth? Come meet Luna and her care team. This encounter will give you the opportunity to feed Luna and learn from her care...
Learn about the diversity, behavior, and ecology of snakes of the Sonoran Desert with Ranger Eric! We will also discuss safety around venomous snakes and Gila monsters, as well as hopefully dispelling some of the myths that exist about these misunderstood and frequently maligned neighbors of ours. The Nature Center also has some live snakes you can...
This is a casual drop-in program, that will have a variety of information on our Wild Burros. Whether you want to know how the Burros came to Arizona, or you...
Deep beneath the earth's crust, hundreds of kilometres below the surface, with no light, no air, and very little water, in pores and fissures of hard rock, scientists have found...
In honor of Homeless Animals’ Day, grab some popcorn and join us for a heartwarming film screening of "Arthur the King." This day is all about spotlighting the issue of stray pets and the magic of adoption and spay/neuter programs. Watch as the true tale of Michael Light and his squad unfolds during the Adventure Racing World Championship. Their...
Up to 10 species of hummingbirds use the green corridor of the San Pedro River as a freeway between their tropical winter retreats and their northern nesting grounds. The public is invited to get a close-up look at these tiny travelers as staff and volunteers from the Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory capture, band, weigh, measure,...
Bring Your Family to Meet Part of Our Family. Our Education staff will share some fun facts while the keepers introduce you to the individual animals and their stories. This private after-hours event will include some tasty treats for both the animals and our guests, plus some fun activities! Reservations are Required - and go...
New this summer! Twelve light installations now on view at Garden After Dark throughout the Garden trails. This brand-new shimmering display creates a playful break from the summer heat with...
If your goal is to see wildlife, monsoon season is a great time for an evening hike! We’ll be taking a roughly three-mile hike along the Spur Cross and Dragonfly Loop trails,...
Join Ranger Shaun for a family-friendly night hike in search of scorpions! This nighttime adventure begins outside the Nature Center, where restrooms and water fountains are available. The program starts with a 15-minute overview on scorpion identification and behavior before we head out in search of these fascinating arachnids. We'll walk up to 1.3 miles towards the Jasper Loop; don't forget...
Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about scorpions, snakes, tarantulas, spiders, owls, nightjars, mammals, and other nocturnal wildlife while hiking along Rock Peak Wash Trail. The hike will be about 1-2 miles roundtrip on easy to moderate grade, with frequently sandy and uneven surfaces. The hike distance and time may be shortened depending...