• The Minnesota Zoo is the state's largest environmental learning center, serving more than one million people every year
• The Minnesota Zoo is a conservation leader within its 500 acre site and around the world
• The Minnesota Zoo is a statewide attraction with award winning exhibits, animal demonstrations and public events
• The Minnesota Zoo participates In 24 AZA species survival programs and directs the Tiger Survival Plan.
• More than 145,000 students and teachers visit the Zoo each year on field trips.
• The Zoo has nearly 2,500 animals in its collections representing 380 species.

Don’t Know Dholes? Explorers ($500+)
Friday, August 24, 2012, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Ages 12+
Four dholes, also known as Asian Wild Dogs, came to the Minnesota Zoo last winter.  Join us to learn more about these endangered canids, found in only a handful of North American zoos, and see their adorable new pups born this spring.

Relax at the Reef Voyagers ($250+)
Wednesday, October 17, 2012, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Learn the secrets of the newly-renovated Tropical Reef exhibit!  We'll learn about corals, the fish that depend on them, and how we care for them at the Zoo. 

Party with the Penguins Explorers ($500+)
Sunday, November 4, 2012, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Ages 12+
Learn about our African penguins' biology, behavior, and conservation status.  We'll see their behind-the-scenes accommodations and the life support system that keeps their water just right!

Zoomobile: Up Close and Personal Voyagers ($250+)
Tuesday, January 15, 2013, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Using live animals and biological artifacts, Zoomobile naturalists create a dynamic, personal and fun program for people of all ages. Join us for a special Zoomobile program, just for Friends! 

Soar with the Bird Show  Voyagers ($250+)
Friday, February 8, 2013, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Get a unique view of the World of Birds Show in their winter home, the Target Learning Center.  Meet the trainers and their avian charges up close and learn about techniques used to prepare the birds for the show.  You may even meet some of the Show’s undiscovered, soon-to-be stars!  Don’t forget your camera – photo opportunities will be available.

Friends Farm Babies  Voyagers ($250)
Monday, April 15, 2013, 4:15 – 7:00 p.m.
All Ages
Enjoy the Wells Fargo Family Farm after hours, without the crowds of a regular Zoo day. Catch a ride on the Farm tram, watch human kids romping with the goat kids, feel the soft down of days-old chicks and ducklings, pose with an antique tractor, roast marshmallows at the bonfire, and try to stump the Farm’s keepers and volunteers with all your questions! 

Amur Tigers and Amur Leopards Explorers ($500+)
Thursday, May 16, 2013, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Ages 12+
The Amur tiger is the largest of all cats, and the Amur leopard is one of the rarest big cats in the world. We will learn about the cats' diet, behavior, enrichment, conservation status, and we’ll get to see the tigers behind-the-scenes!

Black Bear Care  Naturalists ($1,000+)
Tuesday, June 11, 2013, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Ages 12+
Three adorable black bears make their debut on the Zoo's Medtronic Minnesota Trail in September 2012.  Here's your chance to learn more about this iconic Minnesota species, directly from the keepers who care for them every day.

There is no additional fee to attend Friends events, but space may be limited and pre-registration is required.  Registration opens exactly one month prior to each event.  At that time, an email reminder will be sent to everyone at the appropriate Friends level and above.

For more information about the Friends of the Minnesota Zoo program, please contact Shannon Rhatigan at 952.431.9447 or Shannon.Rhatigan@mnzoo.org.