SPEAKERS OF THE WILD Enjoy animals and want to learn more about them from experts? For $20 if you’re a member and $40 if you’re not, you’ll enjoy an animal mingle, a cocktail, appetizers, presentation by experts and a moderated Q&A session. Florida Panther Conservation Thursday, May 20, 6-7:30 p.m. Conservation photographer and National Geographic Explorer Carlton Ward Jr. and Mark Cunningham, a state wildlife veterinarian with Florida Wildlife Commission, will present an in-depth look into the global conservation of Florida's most beloved and endangered species, the Florida panther. Painted Dog & Elephant Conservation Thursday, Aug. 19, 6-7:30 p.m. Hear about the plight of two of Africa’s most beloved and endangered species, the African elephant and the African painted dog. Top experts in the field, including ZooTampa’s Chief Zoological Officer Dr. Larry Killmar and Greg Rasmussen, founder and former director of the Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) project in Zimbabwe, will talk about ongoing conservation efforts.
FITNESS IN THE WILD Mix up your workout routine with one of these awesome fitness options. Not only do you get to work up a sweat on the beautiful zoo grounds, but you’ll also get your pre-workout inspiration from an animal encounter! Though you need to be a zoo member to buy a ticket, you can purchase one for a friend. Yoga with Bella Prana: Saturday, May 22, 8:30-10 a.m., ages 18 and up. Pose like your favorite animal in a yoga class led by an instructor from Bella Prana Yoga & Meditation. Yogis of all levels can enjoy this wild event. Zumba: Saturday, July 24, 8:30-10 a.m., ages 18 and up. Enjoy a mix of low and high-intensity moves while dancing to upbeat music. This total body workout focuses on cardio, muscle conditioning, balancing and f lexibility. All fitness levels are welcome. Stroller Strides® with FIT4MOM: Saturday, Sept. 25, 8:30-10 a.m., ages 18 and up and children in strollers. This total-body condition workout is designed to meet you where you are mentally and physically. All fitness levels welcome. While this class is geared towards mothers and children in strollers, adults without children may join as well.
“We want our guests to walk away inspired and empowered by experiences that show the uniqueness of the animal world and join us on our mission to save these amazing species. We are dedicated to continuing to find ways for families to get wild safely to ensure that members of our community have a place to experience the much-needed mental health benefits and comfort that being outdoors and connecting with nature provides.” — Joe Couceiro, CEO of ZooTampa APRIL 2021 TampaBayParenting.com
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