Overview
Brookfield Zoo is open year-round, offering a unique and enjoyable experience during the winter months. With fewer crowds and special winter activities, visiting the zoo in winter can be a refreshing change from the summer rush. This blog post will explore the animals that thrive in the cooler temperatures, the enrichment activities provided for the animals, and tips to make the most of your winter visit to Brookfield Zoo.
Animals That Enjoy Cooler Temperatures
Brookfield Zoo is home to several animals that are well-suited to the winter weather. These include:
- Polar Bears: Enjoying their natural habitat, polar bears are active and playful in the cold weather.
- Snow Leopards: These majestic cats are comfortable in the cold and can be seen roaming freely.
- Bison: Native to cold climates, bison are well-suited to the winter environment.
- Amur Tigers: These tigers are adapted to the cold and can be seen exploring their enclosures.
- Przewalski’s Horses: These horses are native to cold climates and enjoy the winter weather.
- Amur Leopards: Similar to the snow leopards, Amur leopards are comfortable in the cold and can be seen in their naturalistic habitats.
Enrichment Activities for Animals During Winter
Brookfield Zoo provides enrichment activities for its animals during the winter months to keep them engaged and active. These activities include:
- Indoor Exhibits: Many animals are moved to indoor exhibits, such as Tropic World, The Living Coast, and Clouded Leopard Rain Forest, which provide a warm and comfortable environment.
- Special Toys and Activities: Zoo staff provide special toys and activities to keep the animals entertained and stimulated, such as empty barrels for the polar bears to play with.
- Docent Interactions: With fewer visitors, docents can spend more time with guests, sharing interesting facts and stories about the animals.
Tips for Visiting Brookfield Zoo in Winter
To make the most of your winter visit to Brookfield Zoo, consider the following tips:
- Dress Warmly: Bundle up with layers, hats, and scarves to stay comfortable in the cold weather.
- Visit During Less Busy Times: Late mornings and late afternoons are ideal for seeing animals at their most active.
- Take Advantage of Free Days: Brookfield Zoo offers free admission on certain days in January and February, making it a great time to visit.
- Explore Indoor Exhibits: Spend time in the heated indoor habitats to escape the cold and see a variety of animals.
- Pack Your Own Food: While there are restaurants open during zoo hours, you can also bring your own food to enjoy during your visit.
Additional Information
- Cost: General admission is free on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays in January and February. Parking costs $14.00.
- Hours: The zoo is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with extended hours during special events.
- Directory: Brookfield Zoo is located at 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513.
- Value: Visiting the zoo in winter offers a unique and peaceful experience with fewer crowds, making it a great value for visitors.