Celebrate Tree Kangaroo Day at Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo in Gainesville is gearing up for a special event this Saturday, May 17. The zoo will host World Tree Kangaroo Day, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about these unique marsupials while offering a day of fun and educational activities for the community.

The festivities begin at 9 a.m. and will run until 3 p.m. at the zoo located at 3000 NW 83rd St. Families and friends are encouraged to come out and participate in various activities, including games, crafts, and educational talks about tree kangaroos.

The program includes exciting animal encounters, with an added cultural twist featuring live didgeridoo performances by Lindsey Dank. Food trucks will also be on site, ensuring that visitors can enjoy delicious meals as they celebrate these incredible creatures.

Kathy Russell and Jade Woodling, experts in animal care, will discuss how zoos contribute to the conservation of tree kangaroos, both in captivity and in their native habitat in Papua New Guinea. Woodling, a key figure in the Tree Kangaroo Species Survival Plan, expressed pride in the zoo's efforts to boost awareness on the need to protect tree kangaroos and their ecosystems.

The event schedule includes various training demonstrations for the animals, starting with a Tree Kangaroo Training Demonstration at 9:45 a.m., followed by a Grey Parrot Training Demonstration and storytime featuring "The Wondrous Cloud Forest." Visitors will also have the opportunity to attend keeper talks focused on tree kangaroos and gibbons at different times throughout the day.

Tickets for Tree Kangaroo Day will only be available at the gate, where all major payment methods will be accepted. General admission is $10 for adults, while children (ages 4-12), seniors, active military, and first responders can enter for just $6. Young children (3 and under) and zoo members enjoy free admission, making this a perfect family outing!

This event is pivotal for both community engagement and wildlife education. By participating, guests not only learn about tree kangaroos but also contribute to the conservation efforts vital for their survival. As we embrace the joy of sharing space with these incredible animals, we must reflect on how we can further support wildlife preservation.

Will you join in on the festivities and support the conservation of tree kangaroos? Share your thoughts below and let us know how you feel about this important cause!

• conservation
• Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
• tree kangaroo