Turtle Back Zoo

ZOO CAMP DEBUTS THIS SUMMER AT ESSEX COUNTY TURTLE BACK ZOO
www.TurtleBackZoo.com

(West Orange, NJ – May 19, 2009) – For the first time this summer, the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo will offer a week-long day camp with programs tailored for children entering Kindergarten through 8th Grade. Sessions run from June 22 through August 14, 2009, and will be led by dedicated and carefully screened wildlife instructors. The goal: an appreciation for animals and the natural world through fun, educational activities in a unique environment.

Children will learn about mammals, reptiles, birds, native species, habitats, zoo careers and the environment – spending as much time outside and exploring the zoo as possible. Zoo campers will even have the opportunity for close-up encounters with educational animals like juvenile alligators, ferrets and owls. Hands-on learning with “bio facts” like bones, pelts and feathers; learning games; arts and crafts; zoo walks; behind-the-scenes tours; and viewings of animal feedings will round out each week.

Campers will be divided into like-age groups to provide an appropriate, focused educational experience. As part of the “Zoo Crew,” older campers (Grades 6-8) will participate in even more in-depth interactions with the zoo’s daily operations, animal care and staff.

Because of the high-demand and low instructor-to-student ration, sessions are expected to fill up quickly. Total cost is $300 for the week-long camp, which runs from 9:00am-3:00pm, Monday through Friday. Mid-morning snack and water are provided, however children must bring their lunches. For more information or to obtain a registration form, visit www.turtlebackzoo.com or go to the zoo admissions office during normal hours of operation.