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Z O O L O G I C A L

S O C I E T Y

O F

M I L W A U K E E

NOV/DEC 2026

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Walking in a Wild Wonderland

8-9 Get to Know … the Red Pandas

Make Your Holidays Happier for Your Outdoor Neighbors

Spring Zoo Class Brochure Inside

AND A PEACOCK IN A PINE TREE

When you visit the Zoo, it’s hard to miss the peafowl roaming along the pathways and outdoor habitats. From their resounding calls echoing far and wide, to the brightly colored plumage of the peacock’s iconic tail feathers, these birds stand out from the rest of the animals at the Zoo. That’s why this year we’re strutting our stuff as the Society’s annual holiday ornament will feature the peacock! Did you know? When a peacock fans out his tail feathers and rustles them while trying to attract a peahen’s attention, he is actually making more noise than you can hear. Researchers at the University of Manitoba in Canada conducted a study and found that while rustling their tail feathers, peacocks are making sounds at low frequencies — too low for humans to hear — that other peafowl can hear and respond to. The study hypothesized that this adaptation could help peacocks communicate with other peafowl through the dense vegetation found in their native range. This year’s ornament showcases the iconic fan spread of a peacock’s tail feathers. Local artist Andy Schumann handcrafts each year’s ornament in clay before turning the mold into a beautiful pewter ornament. This is the 35th ornament in the Society’s collection. Each ornament is $16, including tax. Visit zoosociety.org/ornaments for a look at available options.

DEC

MEMBERANDA Zoo hours: Nov. 1-Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. weekdays. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekends. Closed on Nov. 26, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.

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STROLLING THROUGH A FANTASTIC FOREST

Zoological Society office hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Society Office holiday hours: The Zoological Society offices will be closed on Nov. 26 for Thanksgiving, Dec. 25 for Christmas and Jan. 1 for New Years. The office will remain open from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 24. Visit us online at zoopass.com, anytime. Payment information at Zoo admissions: The Milwaukee County Zoo staff does not accept checks for Zoo Pass purchases or renewal payments at the Zoo’s admissions. Tax-deductible portions for the Zoo Pass categories are: Individual ($60) Individual +1 or Dual ($68) Individual +2, Dual +1 ($75) Dual +2 ($83) One Adult Household ($76) Two Adult Household or One Adult Household +1 ($84)

Two Adult Household +1 or One Adult Household +2 ($91) Two Adult Household +2 or One Adult Household +3 ($99) Two Adult Household +3 ($106) Affiliate ($108) Benefactor ($178)

Reciprocal Zoos and Aquariums: We update our list of zoos and aquariums that offer reduced or free admission to our members with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums each year. We only reciprocate with AZA-accredited facilities and reserve the right to not reciprocate with zoos and aquariums located within close proximity of the Milwaukee County Zoo. Please be sure to contact the Zoo you plan to visit to confirm reciprocity. Moving? Please call us when you change your address or name. The call saves us money because when the post office returns your mail with a forwarding address, we pay twice for mailing: to the old address and the new. If you’ve changed your address on your identification, replacement Zoo Pass cards may be purchased with the new information for $5.

Fantastic Forest

Sponsored by Hawks Landscape

It’s your prelude to Wild Lights — the Zoological Society brings back its annual tradition of creating a winter wonderland indoors with Fantastic Forest. Local youth groups come together to handmake animal-themed ornaments and then use them to decorate nearly 60 trees throughout the U.S. Bank Gathering Place. This is a most wonderful way to start off your holiday visit to the Zoo!

There are still a few trees available for decorating. If you are interested in signing up your youth group or learning more about the Fantastic Forest, visit zoosociety.org/trim-a-tree.

WILD THINGS

Issue No. 180, Nov.-Dec. 2026 Wild Things is a membership newsletter published by the Zoological Society of Milwaukee five times a year.

Check out this year’s Fantastic Forest zones: aROARa ButterFLIGHT FantaSEA Flamingle All the Way

Photos taken by Carolyn Lewis or Michael Grennell, unless otherwise noted.

Jungle Bells

Contact the Zoological Society at: 10005 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226 Phone: 414-258-2333 Web: zoosociety.org

Photo Credit: Mac Bronnson

Cover Photos: Wild Lights by Joel Miller Spring Zoo Class by Carolyn Lewis Red Panda by Mac Bronnson Cardinal - Stock

Editor & Writer: Michael Grennell Contributing Writer: Carolyn Lewis Designer: Courtney Lein

Contact the Milwaukee County Zoo at: 10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226 Phone: 414-771-3040 Web: milwaukeezoo.org

Printed on recycled paper.

Swans-a-Swimming Polar Point Starry Safari Winter Woodland Vibrance

Photo Credit: Milwaukee County Zoo

WALKING IN A WILD WONDERLAND Wild Lights Presented by We Energies Foundation Nov. 20-22, 27-28 Dec. 3-6, 9-13, 16-23, 26-31 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. If you love seeing the vibrant colors of the animals here at the Zoo during the day, prepare to be dazzled with an unforgettable nighttime spectacle. On select nights in November and December, come take a walk through a wildly fantastic holiday light display consisting of themed zones that bring out the wonder of winter. Enjoy a wondrous woodland ride on the North Shore Bank Safari Train or pick your favorite animal to ride on the Penzeys Carousel (weather depending).

Photo Credit: Milwaukee County Zoo

November 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

BUY ONLINE TO SAVE TIME AND MONEY! Prices vary depending on the night you attend. Zoo Pass and Platypus Circle members receive 20% off Wild Lights tickets. Your discount will be applied automatically when you log in to your member portal on the Zoo’s website.

Tickets are on sale now at milwaukeezoo.org.

Cheers! (21+) Presented by Milwaukee Uncut

Drive-thru Nights

Dec. 10 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Nov. 22, Dec. 6, 13 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

This night is just for the grown-ups! Whether you’re looking for a winterthemed date night or a pre-holiday hangout with your friends, Cheers is the perfect night to check out Wild Lights. Along with the sparkling light displays, there will be specialty cocktails and food for sale and don’t miss out on the live entertainment.

Avoid the cold and enjoy the show from the comfort of your vehicle. These three designated nights are closed to pedestrians, but don’t worry — there will still be opportunities for you to pull over and buy a snack or beverage. Even if the weather outside might be frightful, taking a cozy drive through the lights will be so delightful. Admission is per vehicle, not number of passengers.

Dogs After Dark

December 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Dec. 16 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. “Bark” by popular demand after debuting last year, Dogs After Dark is your chance to make the holiday season totally paw-some. Bring your canine best friend with you to take a walk around the Zoo and be enthralled by the animal-themed light displays. 4

CUTEST GIFT HERD IN THE

arlier this year, the Zoo celebrated the births of three scimitar-horned oryx calves within the span of a week. This trio is part of the latest chapter in an incredible conservation success story. Thanks to global conservation efforts, the scimitar-horned oryx went from being classified as Extinct in the Wild by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2000 to Endangered in 2023. This holiday season, we’re celebrating the scimitar-horned oryx calves with a limited-time offer animal sponsorship — and new this year, the package will feature a pewter ornament of an adult scimitar-horned oryx, carefully crafted by local artist Andy Schumann.

A ZOO-PER DUPER AWESOME GIFT We’re not monkeying around when we tell you we have the perfect holiday gift idea for you to give (or to ask for!). A Zoo Pass is the gift that lasts for 12 months, and this holiday season, each new gift Zoo Pass membership — no matter what level — comes with an adorable plush-toy monkey.*

The $50 package includes:

• A beautifully crafted scimitar-horned oryx ornament • A certificate of sponsorship • A colorful fact sheet about scimitar-horned oryx • An invitation to an event for animal sponsors held in August • A one-year subscription to Alive magazine and Wild Things newsletter • Sponsor recognition on our donor kiosk in the U.S. Bank Gathering Place • An animal sponsor decal

Upgrade your sponsorship to the $100 level to receive a photo of the oryx calves and two Zoo attraction tickets.

BRING HOLIDAY CHEER TO THE ZOO

A Zoo Pass will give you free regular admission and parking to the Milwaukee County Zoo for 12 months, making it an amazing value gift for anyone you know. Want to ride the train or carousel? We have you covered. A Zoo Pass comes with coupons electronically loaded onto your card and can be used for the North Shore Bank Safari Train, Penzeys Carousel or the Zoo’s 2027 summer exhibit. New Zoo Passes come with 4 coupons.

Other benefits include: • Discounted or free admission to 150 zoos and aquariums • Discounts and priority registration for certain events and all Zoo Classes/Camps • Access to members-only events • Plus, Zoo Pass gift purchases are tax deductible!

t’s that time of year once again where you are trying to figure out the perfect gifts to give to the special people in your life. But did you know that the special animals in your life would like gifts too? Zookeepers give the animals here at the Zoo various enrichment items in order to help engage and stimulate the natural instincts and behaviors of each species. Whether it’s a puzzle feeder that an animal must solve in order to receive their enrichment food, or some interesting special scent for the animals to sniff and follow around their habitat, these enrichment items are an important part of the overall well-being of the animals at the Zoo. During the holiday season, you can check out the Giving Tree to find out how you can help support the animals at the Zoo. Located in the U.S. Bank Gathering Place, the Giving Tree is decorated with paper ornaments that list specific items requested by zookeepers to use in animal enrichment, or gift cards that can be used to purchase enrichment items year-round. As you prepare your gift lists and check them twice, make sure you don’t forget to include your favorite animals as well!

*New gifts only, while supplies last 7

GET TO KNOW … THE RED PANDAS

There are many cold-weather animal species that live at the Milwaukee County Zoo, but one of the species that’s a favorite among guests is the red panda. During the warm summer months, the Zoo’s two red pandas — Dash and Dr. Erin Curry — will often choose to remain in their indoor space behind the scenes, or they might be seen cooling off in their specially-made, air-conditioned log located in the center of their habitat. But as the temperatures cool and get closer to the climate red pandas experience in their native range of the eastern Himalayas, you will likely get a better view of these reddish-brown tree-climbers. Dash and Dr. Erin Curry may look similar, but here’s what you need to know to help you tell them apart during your next trip to the Zoo.

Dr. Erin Curr y

Born:

Arrived at MCZ:

Climbing Connoisseurs Daugherty says that one of the most fascinating things to her about the red pandas are the unique adaptations the species have that allow them to climb around their habitat with ease. “They have very cool anatomy when it comes to their joints,” she said. “Their ankles are super flexible which allows them to climb down trees headfirst, which is really unique. And then they also have a specialized elongated bone in their hands to help them grasp bamboo.”

June 6, 2012 at Zoo de Granby, Quebec, Canada Oct. 15, 2013, from Zoo de Granby

Physical Characteristics:

Born:

Arrived at MCZ:

June 19, 2015, at Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden March 15, 2016, from Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Physical Characteristics: According to Big Cats zookeeper Hannah Daugherty, Dr. Erin Curry has darker colored fur than Dash — especially along her back. When looking at their heads, Dr. Erin Curry’s face appears smaller and more narrow.

Dash is a little smaller in size than Dr. Erin Curry, and his fur is lighter in color. Daugherty also says that his face is wider and larger and lighter in color.

Personality: Daugherty describes Dash’s personality as being prototypical of the species — very relaxed and laid back. Because of this behavior, the zookeepers are able to go into the habitat space with Dash and Dr. Erin Curry at times and observe them more closely to make sure they are healthy and thriving.

Personality: Daugherty says that Dr. Erin Curry can be a little more spunky and energetic at times than Dash. But, like other members of their species, Dr. Erin Curry can also be very laid back.

Similar Names, Different Animals

Dash

The origin of the word, “panda,” is murky, but it’s believed to have originated from the Nepali language and describes the species’ ability to climb or eat bamboo. While red pandas and giant pandas both eat bamboo, they come from different branches of the animal kingdom. “A lot of people think that because they’re called pandas that they’re related to giant pandas, and that’s not true,” Daugherty says. “Red pandas are in their own unique family, but their closest relatives are skunks, racooons and weasels.” 9

MAKE YOUR HOLIDAYS HAPPIER FOR YOUR OUTDOOR NEIGHBORS

s you prepare to celebrate the holiday season with your friends and family, you should also consider spreading that good cheer toward your wild neighbors. There are many simple and easy conservation actions that you can take that can help make a big difference on the environment

WATCH WHAT YOU WRAP WITH

All wrapping paper can be recycled, right? Nope. Many types of wrapping paper, especially those that have glitter or foil on them, are not recyclable. So, when you go to wrap your holiday gifts, take a close look at the rolls of paper you buy to see if it’s made of recycled paper or if it’s identified as recyclable. You can also try different giftwrapping materials instead! Reusable holiday gift bags, newspapers, old posters and even cloth can all be great sustainable alternatives to use this holiday season.

Use this same advice when it comes to your holiday cards. Make sure they are recyclable or made of recycled paper or — even better yet — get creative and make your own cards!

MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR DECORATIONS WILD

Spruce up your outdoor décor by using natural materials instead of synthetic decorations. Pine boughs can bring a nice holiday touch to your home, while mistletoe can provide a festive splash of color. If you choose to use synthetic decorations, there are other measures you can take to help wildlife. Avoid using decoration with fine mesh that birds could get tangled in, and also make sure your plastic decorations don’t have pieces that could be mistaken for food sources (like nuts or berries) by scavenging animals.

DECK THE WINDOWS WITH BIRD FRIENDLY STICKERS

With all the colorful displays throughout your neighborhood, it can become easy for birds to get disoriented by all the lights, which can lead to an increase in bird strikes on windows. Help keep the birds safe by decorating your windows with holiday-themed stickers and window clings. From candy canes to snowflakes to reindeer and more, putting up these decals can help warn birds away from the windows they cannot see.

DON’T TRASH YOUR OLD HOLIDAY LIGHTS. Rather than throwing away your old or broken holiday lights where they will end up in landfills, bring them to the Zoo! During the month of December, you can drop off your unwanted holiday lights at the U.S. Bank Gathering Place to be recycled. 10 Stock Image

2027

AGE 2

We know you’re excited about our classes, and we want to make your child’s educational experience rewarding. Please read and familiarize yourself with important information and policies on the last page.

with one adult

COWS ARE COOL

STROLLER SAFARI Age infant–2 with one adult

$21 Zoo Pass members $31 non-members

Stroll through the Zoo on these guided tours designed specifically for one-on-one learning time for you and your child! Programs feature songs, puppets, stories and more. We recommend wearing close-toed shoes, warm clothing and bringing your stroller along. All classes begin in the atrium of the Conservation Education building. Tours take place outside rain or shine.

RED, BLUE & YELLOW, TOO

Discover the sounds and colors of birds at the Zoo’s bird building. From blackand-white penguins to blue-and-yellow starlings, there are so many colors to see! Hear the squawk of the rhinoceros hornbill and learn a finger-play to practice color recognition with your little “chick.” 8:45-9:45 a.m.

10:15-11:15 a.m.

Feb. 18, 19, 20

Feb. 19, 20

Mar. 3, 7, 12

Mar. 7, 12

STRIPES, SPOTS OR SOLIDS?

Let’s go exploring to find our feline friends! Visit the big cats (and one that is small) as we focus on the patterns on their fur and the different sounds they make. Roar, chuff, hiss, purrrrrrrrrr. Read a tiger book, and learn a lion lullaby you can sing at naptime or bedtime with your little “cub.” 8:45-9:45 a.m.

10:15-11:15 a.m.

Mar. 25, 26, 30 Apr. 7, 16, 17, 24

Mar. 26 Apr. 17, 24

TRUNKS, TONGUES, TOES & TEETH

Take a stroll as we visit some of the largest animals at our Zoo. Sing and rhyme as we learn about the long trunk & tusks of the elephant, the purple tongue of the giraffe and the huge teeth & toes of the hippo. Help your little “calf” find their nose, toes, teeth & tongue, too. 8:45-9:45 a.m.

10:15-11:15 a.m.

May 6, 7, 8, 12, 15, 18, 21

May 7, 8, 15, 21

Join us for an “udderly” delightful morning as we learn about our farm friend, the cow! Play with cow puppets and milk a pretend cow in our classroom barn. Then make your own cow costume before we “moo-ve” over to the Zoo’s dairy barn to visit the cows!

RED, BLUE & YELLOW, TOO Feb. 27 Mar. 14

8:45-9:45 a.m. OR 10:15-11:15 a.m.

STRIPES, SPOTS OR SOLIDS? Apr. 3, 11

8:45-9:45 a.m. OR 10:15-11:15 a.m.

TRUNKS, TONGUES, TOES & TEETH May 16, 22

8:45-9:45 a.m. OR 10:15-11:15 a.m.

$32 Zoo Pass members $42 non-members

ZOO CAROUSEL

One, two, three, four! Join us in our colorful classroom to practice counting and so much more! Read a counting book and make a crazy carousel animal you can pretend to ride. Then “round and round and round we’ll go” as we take a ride on the Penzeys Carousel!

8:45-9:45 a.m.

10:15-11:15 a.m.

8:45-9:45 a.m.

10:15-11:15 a.m.

Feb. 11, 12, 13, 16, 20, 24, 28

Feb. 12, 13, 20, 28

Apr. 29, 30 May 1, 2, 5, 7, 11, 15

Apr. 30

STROLLER SAFARI: SIBLING EDITION! Special Stroller Safari sessions designed for families with children ages infant-5 attending together with a maximum of 2 adults per family. See class descriptions on this page.

May 1, 2, 5, 7, 15

AGE 3 with one adult

LIONS ... ROAR!

Leap into our African savanna classroom to learn more about lions! Stalk and pounce like a lion in your lion costume. Then, prowl over to the Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country to see the Zoo’s pride of lions. Get ready for a roaring good time! 8:45-10:15 a.m.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Feb. 25, 26, 28

Feb. 26, 28

Mar. 2, 3, 5, 7, 13

Mar. 5, 7, 13

“This is the best day ever!”

– Class Participant

$39 Zoo Pass members $49 non-members

BARNYARD BUDDIES-NEW! Have a barnyard full of fun as we learn about life on the farm! Dress the part by creating a farmer costume complete with overalls and a hat. Practice caring for pretend farm animals in the classroom, then meet some of the Zoo’s friendly farm residents during a visit to our Northwestern Mutual Family Farm! 8:45-10:15 a.m.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Apr. 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 10, 11, 14, 17

Apr. 2, 3, 10, 11, 17

SEALS & SEA LIONS

Explore the differences between seals and sea lions as we dive into some marine mammal fun! Create a sea lion costume and hunt for “fish” in our classroom kelp forest. Try your hand at clicker training before we splash into the Zoo to discover how zookeepers use enrichment to help keep our seal colony happy and healthy! 8:45-10:15 a.m.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Apr. 29, 30

May 1, 2, 5, 8, 11, 15

May 1, 2, 8, 15

AGES 4 & 5

$47 Zoo Pass members $57 non-members

child only or with one adult

GLOBETROTTING

Journey through the jungle, dive into the ocean and search the savanna as we learn about some amazing creatures that call these places home. Travel around the classroom in search of food for different animals and then create your own passport to collect animal stickers on our expedition through the Zoo. With an Adult

Child Only 9:15-11:30 a.m.

1-3:15 p.m.

Feb. 13, 14

Feb. 13

Mar. 13, 14 1-3:15 p.m. Mar. 13

Ages 6 & 7

Jan. 28, 29, 30, 31

Jan. 30, 31

Jan. 30

With an Adult

Ages 8 & 9

ANIMAL BABIES

How big is a newborn koala? How tall is a baby giraffe? Find out these answers and more as we learn fun facts about animal babies and their families. Create an animal-baby memory game. Then head in to the Zoo to see if we can spot any new arrivals. Child Only

Mar. 4, 5, 7, 20, 21, 26, 31

9:15-11:30 a.m.

Apr. 3, 10

May 1, 2

Apr. 22, 23, 24

1-3:15 p.m.

Mar. 7, 20, 21

May 1

With an Adult

May 8, 12, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22 1-3:15 p.m. May 8, 16, 22

SAVE 10% ON OUR FRIDAY SERIES! TRAVEL, CARE, PLAY SERIES

$125 Zoo Pass members $155 non-members

1–3:30 p.m. Jan. 30

Feb. 13

Feb. 20, 28

9:15-11:30 a.m.

Apr. 10

child only

Elephants and rhinos and hippos...oh my! Get ready for a BIG adventure as you discover what it takes to care for the Zoo’s largest animals. Put on your sturdiest boots as you uncover surprising secrets about rhinos that love a good scratch and what lies in giant piles of elephant poop. You won’t want to miss this enormous adventure into the world of a zookeeper!

1-3:15 p.m.

Feb. 7, 20, 26, 28

9:15-11:30 a.m.

1-3:15 p.m.

Feb. 12, Mar. 12, AND Apr. 30

Bundle and save when you select this 3-half-day, 3 topic deal! Your child will make new friends while they enjoy learning about animals together each month. This package features all of the spring CHILD-ONLY classes in one simple stop. In February you’ll travel the Zoo together with your new friends. In March see these friends again and practice veterinary care with your own stuffy. Finally, in April you’ll come back to play with your friends and learn about animal babies.

$47 Zoo Pass members $57 non-members

ZOOKEEPER: PACHYDERMS

9:15-11:30 a.m.

Enter our animal-hospital classroom with your favorite stuffed animal from home to practice the jobs of a veterinarian and create your own vet kit. Visit the Zoo’s Animal Health Center to peek into a real exam room and learn how animals are cared for at the Zoo.

9:15-11:30 a.m.

child only

9:15-11:45 a.m.

JUNIOR VET

Child Only

AGES 6 & 7 AND 8 & 9

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

Feb. 14

Feb. 13

MYTH-BUSTERS!

SIBLING EDITION FOR 6-9-YEAR-OLDS 9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

Jan. 31, Feb. 27

Jan. 31

CATCHING SOME ZZZ’S

Journey into a world of dragons, unicorns, mermaids and other legendary creatures. Separate fact from fiction with a mystery tour through the Zoo as you discover amazing animals that may have inspired these magical tales. Then let your imagination soar as you design and build a one-of-a-kind mythical creature to bring home!

Could you sleep for five months straight? A grizzly bear can! What about snoozing while standing up? Horses do it all the time! Join us on a sleepy adventure through the Zoo as we meet some of nature’s most impressive nappers. Discover how animals rest, relax and recharge, and find out who takes the crown for the wildest sleeping habits!

Ages 6 & 7

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

March 7, 20

March 7

Apr. 24

Ages 8 & 9

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

March 14

March 20

May 1

Ages 8 & 9

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

May 15

May 1

SIBLING EDITION FOR 6-9-YEAR-OLDS

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

9:15-11:45 a.m.

1–3:30 p.m.

March 13, 21

March 13

May 2, 8

May 8

n Attentrioners! Homelea

AGES 6-10

child only

Become a wild learner in our once-a-week, for 4-week series. Classes will develop curiosity, create empathy and encourage healthy social skills. With the same students each week, we’ll build community as we explore and learn together.

Feb. 4, 11, 18, AND 25

$21 Zoo Pass members $31 non-members

WHO GLOWS THERE?

AGES 6-9

$157 Member $187 non-members

SPRING BREAK: WILD VACATION

Join us for a fun-filled two day Zoo “Staycation” as we visit exotic vacation destinations around the Zoo! Practice your map skills as you navigate these adventures and meet animal friends along the way! Get your passports ready — you don’t want to miss this globe-trekking experience!

Mar. 30 AND 31 OR Apr. 1 AND 2

Conservationists work around the world, but we can also protect wild spaces in our own state. We’ll learn how to help wildlife in Wisconsin and take home some projects to bring the wilderness to your backyard!

While we welcome family members of all ages, the content of this class is intended for children ages 3-14. Minimum of two registrants required and must include one adult (18 years or older) and one child. Children under the age of 1 are free to attend and do not need to be registered.

SPRING BREAK CLASSES

9:15 a.m.-3 p.m.

ZOO CAREERS: WISCONSIN WILDLIFE

FAMILY CLASS all ages

Photo by Carolyn Lewis

child only

$47 Zoo Pass Members $57 non-members

Feb. 27, Mar. 21, Apr. 10

Explore animals that redefine the extreme: from blood-squirting defenders to poop-eating survivalists. Embrace the stinky, the slimy and the squirminducing as you learn about the incredible adaptations that allow these animals to thrive in their environments. Choose the A.M. or P.M. session. 1-2:30 p.m.

child only

9:15-11:45 a.m.

OWLS: STINKY, SLIMY, SCALY

10-11:30 a.m.

AGE 10-14

$105 Zoo Pass members $125 non-members

OWLS: OBSERVANT WILD LEARNER SQUAD!

Have you ever chased a firefly on a summer night and wondered how they glow? The forest and ocean experience regular light shows from bioluminescent (or glowing) creatures! Investigate why and how some animals glow and create a radiant creature of your own. Don’t miss this illuminating class! 9:15-11:30 a.m.

1-3:15 p.m.

Feb. 14 Apr. 3, 11

Mar. 21

KIDS IN CONSERVATION: SEALS! WITH ADULT WORKSHOP

Photo by Carolyn Lewis

$20 per child Zoo Pass members $30 per child non-members

This program is designed for a child to attend with up to two adults included in the below prices. The content is intended for children ages 3-14. Dive into the world of seals! Learn about these amazing marine mammals and create a fun seal-themed craft to take home. 10-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. OR 2-3 p.m. Mar. 13

Member online registration begins November 11 at 9 a.m. Non-member registration begins November 18 at 9 a.m.

Check our FAQ by scanning the QR Code! Call our staff with questions or concerns at 414-258-5058.

PLEASE READ!

CYBER MONDAY SPECIAL!

Mark your calendars, because you won’t want to miss out on this year’s Cyber Monday deal. When you purchase or gift a Zoo Pass membership at any level on Nov. 30, you will also receive a Milwaukee County Zoo reusable water bottle*. (While supplies last.) One of the three core missions of the Zoological Society is Conserve, and by utilizing a reusable water bottle instead of single-use water bottles, you are helping reduce plastic waste. It’s an awesome way to help out conservation efforts! When you buy a Zoo Pass, you are unlocking 12 months of adventure with free regular admission and parking at the Milwaukee County Zoo. Make sure to visit ZooPass.org on Nov. 30 to get this Cyber Monday special. *Members will receive a coupon in the mail that they can then redeem in person to pick up their water bottle.

GENERAL CLASS POLICIES • Participants must be the appropriate age for a given class and no unregistered children may attend (including siblings). Please call Education prior to registration with any requests for age exceptions. • If your child is attending a child-only class, an adult (18 years or older) must check the child in and provide the following information: emergency phone number, allergies/medications and names of adults authorized for pickup.

NOV

DEC

• Only authorized adults with valid identification may pick up children. • In addition, please do not meet or follow your child’s group into the Zoo, as this is a distraction to the educational experience.

Family Free Days

• If you are not a Zoo Pass member, and you are staying for class, you will need to pay for parking.

Sponsored by Tri City National Bank and FOX6

CANCELLATIONS & REIMBURSEMENT You Cancel – If you’re unable to attend class, call at least 3 days before the class date and we will try to reschedule your child for another available date this season. We do not issue refunds; however, you can offer your child’s class to a friend of the same age. We Cancel – The Conservation Education Department reserves the right to cancel classes. We will attempt to reschedule, accommodate your child in another class or process a reimbursement. For weather-related cancellations, check our website, refer to local news stations or call 414-258-5058.

FREE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

As families come together during the holiday season it’s the perfect time to come out to the Zoo. On the first Saturday of November and December, admission is free to all guests (Parking and attraction fees still apply*). There’s no better time to make fantastic family memories and check out some of your favorite animals in the Herb and Nada Mahler Family Aviary and the Aquatic & Reptile Center.

*Zoo Pass and Platypus Circle members get free parking.

A Zoological Society and Milwaukee County Zoo partnership

GET IN THE GIVING SPIRIT ALL YEAR LONG W

hen you observe a bonobo troop, you can find many similarities between their behavior and the behavior you might see in your family or community. Each member will come together to nurture and protect each other so that the entire group can grow and thrive. Here at the Zoological Society, we believe that bringing people together can inspire meaningful action for wildlife and wild places. By connecting our community, we can educate others about the importance of conservation while supporting the Milwaukee County Zoo as a cherished community asset. That’s why we started The Giving Troop. This program, inspired by our bonobos, is a special community of monthly donors who believe that protecting the future starts with consistent, thoughtful action. You can help make a difference by joining our troop today! By joining The Giving Troop, you are making a lasting impact on the Zoological Society’s mission to Conserve, Educate and Support the Milwaukee County Zoo. As thanks for making your commitment, all monthly donors will receive an exclusive Giving Troop decal.

Giving Troop Exclusive: Monthly gifts of $25 or more will also include your choice of one of two exclusive holiday gifts — a special thank-you for helping create a brighter future for wildlife and wild places.

Option 1: A print of a bonobo art masterpiece that was painted by three generations of the bonobo troop here at the Zoo: A bonobo, Laura, her daughter, Claudine, grandson Katu, and other troop member Deidre and her son Noki Noki.

30th Anniversary

Presented by Bridgewood Advisors

JANUARY 21, 2027 potawatomi hotel & casino Start off 2027 with glamour and excitement at Puttin’ on the Ritz. The Society’s formal fundraising event to support its mission to Conserve, Educate and Support the Milwaukee County Zoo returns to Potawatomi Casino & Hotel. Enjoy cocktail hour while rubbing elbows with some of Milwaukee’s most influential business leaders, followed by a gourmet five-course dinner as amateur boxers from the Wisconsin Local Boxing Committee compete in three-round bouts. When the final bell rings, keep the excitement going at the casino after-party.

Option 2: An exclusive bonobo pewter ornament from the Society’s iconic ornament collection. Hang something on your tree that represents your ongoing commitment to wildlife and conservation.

Whether you can give $10 or $100 a month, any amount helps sustain vital Society work. To learn more about joining The Giving Troop, visit zoosociety.org/GivingTroop.

A NEW WAY TO STOP BY THE ZOO W

e thank our members for their patience and flexibility during construction at the Milwaukee County Zoo. The second phase of construction is underway, which includes the opening of a brand-new Admissions & Membership Building. This new building is for paying guests to get their tickets for the day after they park and it’s also a place for Zoo Pass members to stop if they need anything. Members can renew, upgrade or gift a Zoo Pass — all without entering the Zoo. You can also pick up some of the wildest holiday gifts, including Animal Sponsorships and animal ornaments, or make a year-end donation to the Zoological Society of Milwaukee. Our Membership Service Associates will be on hand to help you throughout the year. Daily office hours for winter, spring and fall are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, the office will stay open until 5 p.m. More details about the new building and its official opening date are coming soon!

JAN

A QUICK START TO YOUR NEW YEAR

Samson Stomp Presented by Prairie Farms Dairy Lace up your shoes, put on your jogging outfit and get ready to stomp around the Zoo. The Samson Stomp will bring runners of all ages out together to tackle one of three distance routes — 5K, 2-mile and 1-mile — as you are “cheered on” by your favorite animals while navigating the course around Zoo grounds. Registration includes a commemorative T-shirt and a day at the Zoo. This event is a great way to get some exercise and help raise money to support all of the animals that reside here at the Zoo! Check back at milwaukeezoo.org for more details.

Photo Credit: Joel Miller

A SPECIAL YEAR-END 26-30 TREAT FOR ALL DEC

Front entrance design rendering provided by: Milwaukee County Zoo

REMEMBER TO REGISTER YOUR VEHICLE We’re also thankful to our Zoo Pass members for going with the flow with the new free-flow parking changes at the Zoo. Because the Zoo uses a license-plate-based parking system, all vehicles must be registered upon arrival, including those belonging to Zoo Pass and Platypus Circle members. To register, members will scan a QR code and enter their Zoo Pass member number, which can be found on the back of their card. If a vehicle is not registered for a visit, a reminder will be placed on the windshield. If the registration is not corrected, a follow-up violation notice will be mailed. Once registered, members can head straight to the U.S. Bank Gathering Place, where staff will scan their Zoo Pass, check IDs and get them on their way to exploring the Zoo!

For more information about the construction project, parking and what to expect during the process, scan the QR code. 22

Frosty Free Week Sponsored by Generac When the holidays are over, there is still fun to be had at the Milwaukee County Zoo to wrap up 2026. For five days in a row, admission is free to all who want to come to the Zoo and see their favorite animals. (Parking and attraction fees still apply.*) This is the Zoo’s way of giving a special holiday “thank you” to all of the wonderful members of our community for their patronage throughout the year. There’s no better time to visit the Zoo and see cold-weather animals like the snow leopards and caribou, or step inside to warm up and visit the Eastern black rhinos and Happy the hippo.

*Zoo Pass and Platypus Circle members get free parking.

Photos by Garrett Hopkins

FACT:

Photo by Garrett Hopkins

PAID

Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 4073

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage

QUICK

Red pandas use their long bushy tails both for balance while climbing trees and to keep warm when they curl up to sleep.

Photo Credit: Mac Bronnson

DATED MATERIAL PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY

Zoological Society of Milwaukee 10005 W. Bluemound Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53226-4383