This Saturday, the Knoxville Zoo is offering a chance to experience its Close Encounters of the Wild Kind program. This summer program gives visitors the chance to take a behind-the-scenes tour and meet some “residents” at the Knoxville Zoo.
Visitors can meet giraffes, penguins, or giant Aldabra tortoises during these special encounters. They also have the opportunity to touch or feed them, talk with their keepers to learn about them, and take a souvenir photo of their personal introduction.
This Saturday, June 23, as well as Saturday, July 28, and Saturday, September 1, three different animal encounters will be offered. Giraffe Gatherings, where visitors can offer Jumbe, Lucille, and Patches a leafy treat at 11 a.m., the Penguin Party, which includes a special appearance by Gypsy or Jello penguin at 1 p.m., and Tortoise Time, an encounter with the giant Aldabra tortoises Al, Stand-Up, and Patches at 2:30 p.m.
Reservations are required for Close Encounters of the Wild Kind and can be scheduled by calling the zoo’s ticket office at (865) 637-5331, extension 361, or at the zoo’s ticket window upon arrival to the zoo. Each Close Encounter session is $20 per person, or $50 per person for all three encounters and reservations for each session are limited. Advanced reservations are recommended.
General admission to the zoo is not included in the price of each Close Encounter ticket. Proceeds from the Close Encounters of the Wild Kind program help support Knoxville Zoo’s animals.
Knoxville Zoo is located off exit 392A from Interstate 40 and is open every day except Christmas Day.
For more information, call (865) 637-5331 or visit www.knoxvillezoo.org
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