The Bronx Zoo Camp in New York City offers a unique and immersive experience for children and teenagers interested in zoology, wildlife conservation, and zoo-related careers. With a variety of programs catering to different age groups, the camp provides an opportunity for young learners to dive into the fascinating world of wildlife and gain valuable insights into the inner workings of a renowned zoo.
Bronx Zoo Camp Programs
The Bronx Zoo Camp offers a diverse range of programs to cater to the interests and age groups of its participants.
Camps for Children Entering 6th to 8th Grade
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Exhibit Builders: This one-week camp focuses on how the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) scientists, artists, and exhibit designers create natural habitats within the zoo to educate and inspire visitors about wildlife conservation.
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Wildlife Advocates: This one-week camp teaches children how to advocate for wildlife and wild places through animal demonstrations, wildlife conservation campaigns, and media and art.
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Zoo Vet Academy: This one-week camp, taught by WCS zoo veterinarian Dr. John Sykes, explores veterinary medicine from a “wild” perspective, providing a unique insight into the field.
Camps for Teenagers
- Working for Wildlife: This two-week program explores a variety of zoo-related careers, including zookeeper, veterinarian, and field scientist. Participants will have the opportunity to assist Bronx Zoo staff and learn about the diverse career options available for those passionate about wildlife.
Camp Logistics and Costs
The Bronx Zoo Camp offers extended care options for caregivers who cannot pick up their campers at the standard 3:00 pm dismissal time. Participants can be picked up anytime between 5:00 pm and 5:30 pm, and the extended care includes opportunities for free play and exhibit visits, weather permitting.
The cost of the camps varies depending on the program and the membership status of the participant. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
| Program | Member Cost | Non-Member Cost |
|---|---|---|
| One-week Camps | $400 | $500 |
| Working for Wildlife (Two-week) | $1,100 | $1,375 |
| Zoo Vet Academy | $240 | $300 |
| Extended Care | $116 | $145 |
Registration for the Bronx Zoo Camp opens on January 22, 2020, and the camp has COVID-19 safety protocols in place. Campers are required to wear a special camp t-shirt every day, and participants should pack a lunch, snack, and a full, refillable water bottle.
Unique Features of Bronx Zoo Camp
The Bronx Zoo Camp offers several unique features that set it apart from other zoo-based camps:
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Hands-on Experiences: Campers have the opportunity to work alongside Bronx Zoo staff, gaining firsthand experience in various zoo-related roles, such as assisting zookeepers and learning from veterinarians.
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Wildlife Conservation Focus: The camp’s programs emphasize the importance of wildlife conservation, teaching participants how to advocate for wildlife and wild places through various mediums, including animal demonstrations, conservation campaigns, and creative projects.
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Diverse Career Exploration: The “Working for Wildlife” camp provides teenagers with a comprehensive overview of the diverse career options available in the zoo and wildlife conservation fields, inspiring them to pursue their passions.
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Specialized Curriculum: The camp’s programs are designed by experienced educators and experts in the field, ensuring that the content is both engaging and educational, catering to the specific interests and needs of the participants.
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Accredited by the American Camp Association: The Bronx Zoo Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of safety, programming, and staff qualifications.
Conclusion
The Bronx Zoo Camp offers a unique and immersive experience for children and teenagers interested in the world of zoology, wildlife conservation, and zoo-related careers. With a diverse range of programs, hands-on experiences, and a focus on wildlife advocacy, the camp provides an exceptional opportunity for young learners to explore their passions and gain valuable insights into the inner workings of a renowned zoo. Whether you’re a budding zoologist, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about the fascinating world of animals, the Bronx Zoo Camp is an experience not to be missed.
References:
– Bronx Zoo Camp for 6th-12th Graders
– Bronx Zoo Camp Programs
– Bronx Zoo School Break Camps
– Bronx Zoo Camp Details
– Bronx Zoo Camp FAQs