Education Program Offerings:

Below is a list of themes we cover using our live Education Animal Collection.  Please choose any program you wish as each can be adjusted to match the learning aptitude of any grade level. We are also happy to create individualized programs to supplement your particular class's needs, just ask!

Animals Throughout the World Meet animals from across the globe and see how they are equipped to survive and thrive in their home lands.

Animal Senses Explore nature using all of your senses! Discover how important senses are to the survival of animals.

Birds/Raptors Our birds of prey are the perfect creatures to discuss unique, highly-evolved adaptations for hunting.

Desert Adaptations What adaptations do animals possess that allow them to survive in harsh desert environments? How do they obtain water? How do they deal with extreme temperatures? Find out in this specially designed program highlighting desert inhabitants.

Endangered Animals Students will be introduced to several endangered animals and learn about the factors that threaten their survival, plus what we can do to help protect them.

Filled to the "BRIM" with Animals A program designed to help students identify characteristics and adaptations of birds, reptiles, invertebrates, and mammals by getting an up-close look at the special features that define each group.

Food Webs/Chains Learn the major components of a food chain as we create our own, starting with the sun and building each step using live animals as examples.

Habitats and Ecosystems Where one lives influences what it does and vise versa, so join us for an exploration of animal lifestyles as we discuss habitats, ecosystems and niches.

Invertebrates Discover the most abundant animal group in the world and the importance of these "creepy crawlies" in our lives.

Mammals What makes a mammal a mammal?  Find out in this fun and furry program!

Nocturnal Animals Discover the creatures of the dark and what adaptations they possess that allows them to be active at night.

Native NY Species Embrace the animal diversity that exists right outside your window.  Meet some of our native education animals and learn about their biology and population status in our area.

Predator/Prey Relationships Whether you are an herbivore, carnivore or omnivore, it's a tough world out there. Let us guide you through the delicate relationships of predators and prey in this eat and be eaten program. 

Reading with the Animals We begin by reading an age-appropriate animal story, followed by a demonstration of a few animals mentioned in the book.  The most popular books that we use are "Wild About Books", "Whooo's There?", "Animals Should Definitely Not Wear Clothing", and "What Do You Do with a Tail Like This?" OR If you have a particular story in mind, we can work together to bring it to life. 

Reptiles and Amphibians What's the difference between a reptile and an amphibian?  From slimy salamanders to not-so-slimy snakes, students will learn the features of these two unique animal groups.

Winter Survival Without a coat, or scarf, mittens or boots, how do the animals of Northern NY make it through our long, harsh winters? Let us show you what tricks our native neighbors use to get them through the cold and the snow.

Offerings are subject to change.  Please contact the Education Department for more information à 315-755-0896 ; colleen@nyszoo.org