Roll in the mud like the elephants do and join in celebrating the gentle giants of the savanna. Meet us in Expedition Tanzania on August 15 for a World Elephant Day event to learn about the Zoo’s beloved elephant herd and how the animal care team keeps them healthy and thriving. Watch as the herd receives special enrichment treats, hear from zoo keepers about their daily activities with the elephants, and take part in fun activities, including a game to see if you can pick up food like an elephant does using its trunk.
Mud wallows will be set up in the Zoo’s Event Plaza from 8:30 – 12:30 p.m. — so bring be sure to dress the kids in clothes that can get dirty and hosed off as they explore how elephants use mud. It’s trunks up to the Zoo’s — and the world’s — precious pachyderms and their conservation.
Here is the Schedule:
Expedition Tanzania
8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- Docent elephant artifact carts and Zoo composting information (can you guess how much “doo” the elephants provide each day?)
- Help create a giant card for the elephants and take the pledge to say no to buying ivory or riding elephants
- Make an “elfie” picture to remember the day
- Test your skill in the elephant trunk game
- Learn about the Zoo’s browse program for the elephants
Event Garden
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Kids Mud Wallow (includes special area for the littles and hosing off after play)
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Video from Dr. Charles Foley on protecting elephants in Africa
Expedition Tanzania
8:30 a.m.
Watch the elephants receive special enrichment
Elephant keeper experience – learn about the Zoo’s herd and their card (plus hear about elephant Nandi who will be celebrating her 12th birthday)
10:00 – 10:30 .am.
Elephant storytelling
10:30 a.m.
Elephant Keeper Experience and elephant training demonstration
11:00 a.m.
Elephant Storytelling
11:30 a.m.
Elephant Keeper Experience