Summer Education Series is Free Every Wednesday
Wild Wednesdays are back for another summer of free educational programming at the Wildwood Zoo in Marshfield. Starting on June 14th, a variety of guests and organizations will visit the zoo on a number of Wednesday’s through August 9th.
Programs last approximately 45 minutes, with sessions held at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. These are rain or shine events held at Wildwood Station.
“The goal of the Wild Wednesday program is to bring people in the community together and educate them on the environment, various animal species and how we coincide together. It’s a fun, hands-on and unique program for all ages,” said Taylor Jakobi, Zoo Education Coordinator.
Each week will showcase a different aspect of animal care, welfare, rehabilitation and animals active in the work force. Visitors can expect to learn new information as each program is unique to the presenters. While what is presented is determined by the featured group, the content is suited for all ages.
“Something that people always comment on is how friendly and accommodating our staff and the presenters are with all ages. We get people from 3 yrs and up attending, and our expert presenters are great at balancing out the information’s difficulty so both age groups understand,” said Jakobi.
The following groups are set to present this summer:
June 14th – Northwoods Wildlife Center will feature turtle and bird rehabilitation.
June 21st – Local pet store, Animal House, will bring a variety of critters for show and tell.
June 28th – Minnesota Zoomobile will make the trek and bring a variety of lizards, birds and smaller animals.
July 12th – UWSP Herpetology Society makes their return with a program on reptile care and education.
July 19th – Clark County Humane Society will make their first appearance at the zoo while bringing along several adoptable animals. They will talk about what their shelter does to help animals, the dedication involved in keeping it a “no kill” shelter, discuss volunteer options and what it takes to care for the large number of animals waiting for homes.
July 26th – Zoozort provides an abundance of information on a variety of animals. A crowd favorite, they make their return with all kinds of critters to visit with.
August 2nd – Animal Quest are also new to the line up. They come from Chicago and bring animals from all over the world.
August 9th – Marshfield Police Department’s K-9 Unit is always a fan favorite as they demonstrate what dogs and handlers do in their day to day working lives. It’s an inside look on how they keep citizens safe.
In addition to the speakers, there will be animal biographies, coupons and a coloring table for kids.
While the programs are free to attend, donations are always appreciated. Added Jakobi, “This program is free to the public. Our goal is to provide education for everyone, no matter what their financial status might be. However, it is not free to hire the professional speakers. Donations are very much accepted and there will be an area at each presentation where they can be made. Suggested donations: $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for each child.”
Wild Wednesdays provide an opportunity for visitors to see and learn about animals that are not always common to the area. “That’s one thing that always intrigues people. Our presenters bring fun and exotic animals for our audiences to meet and ask questions about!” said Jakobi.
To keep up to date on the Wildwood Zoo summer schedule, please visit: ci.marshfield.wi.us/visitors/wildwood_zoo
