ZOO VIEWS: What’s a Carcass Feed?
By Janine Farmer, Animal Keeper
If you’ve ever visited Trail of the Jaguar and seen one of our big cats gnawing on a deer leg or an eagle tearing into a fish, you might have wondered—what exactly is a carcass feed?
THE BASICS
Technically, every carnivore that eats fish, rodents, or chicks is carcass fed. In the simplest terms, it means feeding an animal food that still resembles its original form—something that still “looks like” what it once was.
At Elmwood Park Zoo, our carnivore diets come in a few different forms: some are processed (like the ground meats many of our animals receive), and others arrive frozen in bulk (like rats for snakes or birds of prey). In the wild, these same animals would naturally catch and eat whole prey: snakes swallow rodents, eagles dive for fish, and jaguars hunt larger mammals.
Here in the Zoo, most of our animals were born in human care and never had to hunt. So it’s our job to make sure feeding time still gives them the mental and physical challenge they’d experience in the wild.
Finding Inspiration in the Trail of the Jaguar
When I first started working in the Trail of the Jaguar three and a half years ago, I took a special interest in improving enrichment and nutrition for our cats. Every animal here has a carefully designed diet that meets their nutritional needs—but in our field, there’s always room for growth and creativity. Sometimes, the right opportunity comes along and pushes us to evolve.
For us, that opportunity came through new relationships with local hunters and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Deer season in Montgomery County is very productive, and while hunters often take the prime cuts for themselves, there’s usually not much use for tails, bones, or organ meat.
We began to receive deer bone donations on a regular basis, and as those increased, we realized we could completely rethink how we feed our carnivores.
Breaking Down the “Why”
Before making any big changes, we asked ourselves the important question: Why?
Why change their diets, and why feed them such recognizable parts—like deer legs, tails, or spines—right in front of guests? There’s often a stigma around the word “carcass,” even though it’s one of the most natural things for these animals.
When people hear “carcass feed,” it might sound harsh—but when you reframe it as natural feeding or whole-prey feeding, it makes perfect sense. It’s about giving animals the chance to be animals.
The Wild Connection
Take a jaguar, for example. In the wild, they use incredible strength to bring down prey, then rely on the strongest bite force of any cat to crunch through bones, hide, and muscle. That action helps to clean their teeth and strengthen their jaws, and they receive natural fiber and nutrients from fur, hooves, and connective tissue.
We can’t fully replicate the thrill of the hunt, but we can get close. For smaller cats like Mateo the ocelot, I might hang a whole deer tail high on a climbing structure or hide it inside a puzzle feeder. Watching him work to retrieve it, plucking every bit of hair before reaching the bone underneath, is watching him be a wild cat.
For our jaguars, we get a little more inventive. Twice a week, they receive deer bones—usually from the hock to the hoof. We’ll sometimes hide one inside a large bucket and hang it from their climbing structure. Zean, our male jaguar, then has to problem-solve, climb, jump, and wrestle to get it down. By the end, he’s worked out both physically and mentally—and that’s a huge win for his overall well-being.
The Monthly Feast
We also introduced monthly carcass feeds, where our jaguars get an entire deer leg—shoulder to hoof—instead of their usual meal. These are what we call gorge feeds: one big feast followed by a smaller meal the next day.
That mimics how big cats naturally eat in the wild—feast, rest, repeat. Watching Inka, our female jaguar, drag her meal to a quiet spot to guard it and enjoy it over time is as natural as it gets. She’s using her instincts, her muscles, and her mind—all at once. We can see recognizable changes in their behavior when they receive these feeds, such as more time grooming and resting when normally they might be patrolling.
More Than Just Cats
These benefits go beyond the big cats. Our commissary team helps prepare similar feeds for our birds of prey. If you’re lucky, you might spot our red-tailed hawk and turkey vulture, Hunter and Stan, enjoying a deer head, or our bald and golden eagles tackling a rib cage.
It might look intense, but it’s deeply enriching for them—and it’s a powerful educational moment for guests, too.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, carcass feeds help our animals live their best, most natural lives. They get to think, move, and eat the way nature intended.
And for our visitors, seeing these behaviors up close builds appreciation for the incredible animals we care for and their wild instincts. The closer we can bring the wild to our Zoo, the stronger the connection we can create between people and the natural world.
Our goal is to foster a connection and appreciation for the animals in our care, and what better way than to watch a wide array of natural behaviors?
Elmwood Park Zoo and Zoetis Co-Host Inaugural Vet Tech Summit, Celebrating Veterinary Technicians and the Future of Animal Health
NORRISTOWN, Pa. (October 17, 2025) — Elmwood Park Zoo, in partnership with Zoetis, proudly hosted its inaugural Veterinary Technician Summit on Wednesday, October 15, as part of National Veterinary Technician Week. The event brought together 60 second-year veterinary technology students from Manor College, Harcum College, and Camden County Community College for a full day of education, collaboration, and hands-on experiences at the Zoo.
Held inside the Zoo’s Canopy Gardens Hall and Frank & Paige Engro Veterinary Health Center, the summit highlighted the critical role that veterinary technicians play in animal care and explored the variety of career opportunities across veterinary medicine. Students engaged in panel discussions, toured the Zoo’s animal hospital, and heard from leading experts in the field, including representatives from academia, EPZ animal care, and the pharmaceutical industry.
“Veterinary technicians are critical players in the success of the veterinary health care team,” said Laura Clark, DVM, PhD, Global Medical Affairs at Zoetis, and Elmwood Park Zoo Board Member, whose idea it was to organize this event. “This summit provided students with a real-world view of the diverse career paths available to them—from zoo medicine and specialty practice to research and industry.”
The program featured a dynamic panel on alternate careers in veterinary medicine, moderated by Alyssa Mages, BS, CVT, Chief Visionary Officer of Empowering Veterinary Teams and featuring:
– Kourtney Conti, BS, CVT, Elmwood Park Zoo
– Bailey Donovan, BS, CVT, University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
– Chelsea Geiringer, BS, CVT, Zoetis Veterinary Medical Information & Product Support (VMIPS)
Following the panel, Michele Goodman, VMD, Elmwood Park Zoo’s Director of Animal Care, along with additional Animal Care Staff, led students on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Zoo’s medical facilities and discussed the day-to-day realities of working in the field of zoological veterinary medicine. The afternoon concluded with a Lunch & Learn presented by Jodi Koch, VMD, Professional Services Veterinarian of Zoetis, exploring the emerging science of monoclonal antibodies and their applications in animal health.
“This event not only celebrates veterinary technicians but also reinforces our commitment to education, innovation, and professional development within the animal care community,” said Goodman. “We were thrilled to see so many passionate students connect, learn, and imagine their future in this vital field.”
In addition to educational programming, attendees networked with local veterinary leaders and toured the Zoo’s animal exhibits, rounding out a day of learning and inspiration.
Elmwood Park Zoo and Zoetis plan to continue the Vet Tech Summit as an annual event, further strengthening ties between veterinary programs and veterinary professionals.
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About Elmwood Park Zoo
Elmwood Park Zoo was established in 1924 when a local farmer transferred 16 acres and a small menagerie to the Borough of Norristown. Today, the Zoo is owned and operated by the Norristown Zoological Society, a non-profit organization whose mission is to foster an appreciation for wildlife and the environment that will inspire active participation in conservation. Under the Society’s careful management, Elmwood Park Zoo has attained elite status as one of only 230 institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
About Zoetis
As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock producers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $9.3 billion in 2024 with approximately 13,800 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Wild Lights
Elmwood Park Zoo’s favorite family tradition, Wild Lights presented by Danella, is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before! During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.
Wild Lights operates on select evenings from 5 pm to 9 pm, November 21 through December 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 pm. The zoo and Wild Lights will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Wild Lights is held rain or shine.
WE CANNOT ACCEPT ANY FREE ZOO ADMISSION TICKETS OR COUPONS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WILD LIGHTS. MEMBERS, INCLUDING COMMUNITY PASS (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP) CARD HOLDERS, MUST PURCHASE SEPARATE WILD LIGHTS TICKETS. TICKETS TO WILD LIGHTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Who’s Who at the Zoo: Painter Dave
The zoo has kept painter and artist David Michener very busy over the last few years. From his naturalistic vistas in select animal exhibits to the massive animal mural that over looks the extended parking lot, David has been positively transforming Elmwood Park Zoo, one brush stroke at a time.
“I always had it in me,” David says when describing his artistic ability. He recalls the lessons his grandmother, herself an established artist, would give him as a young boy. He put his developing talent to use early on, selling sketches of Batman for a penny each to his fellow schoolmates at lunch.
David describes the creative ideas he often receives as “flashes” in his head. He says he was overjoyed to be able to apply his creativity to his work at the zoo, which began four years ago with a mural he painted for the interior of the squirrel monkey exhibit.
Since then, David has painted murals for the other primate exhibits, as well as the gorgeous sunset that adorns the walls of the African straw-colored fruit bat enclosure. He also is responsible for the cougar exhibit and the vibrant artwork inside the zoo’s administrative conference room.
He admits that his most challenging work to this point has been the rock walls in the red panda enclosure. David mixed over one ton of concrete and sand and then painstakingly laid it over wire mesh to create the facade that resembles the rocky Himalayan landscape of the panda’s natural habitat.
We couldn’t help but ask what he’s got in mind for the zoo next. “I’m very excited for the future,” is all he’ll say. As the zoo continues to grow and develop, you can expect to see more of David Michener’s art beautifying spaces and adding dimension to exhibits.
Written by Shaun Rogers