Rosamond Gifford Zoo Invites Visitors to Sweet Treats Event

Love is in the air at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo! To celebrate Valentine’s Day, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo will host its annual Sweet Treats event on Sunday, Feb. 9 from 10:30am-3pm.

Throughout the day, zoo guests will have the opportunity to watch as the animal care team presents heart-shaped and Valentine’s-themed enrichment to the animals of the zoo. Each year, the zoo team collects cardboard boxes and other recyclable containers, which are then gift wrapped in recyclable paper using non-toxic glue to resemble valentines. The animal care team prepares the valentines by cutting holes in them and filling them with tasty treats: fruit, veggies, meat, and mealworms, depending on the species.

These special treats provide the animals with physical and cognitive stimulation. As the animals investigate, play with, and otherwise interact with these fun items, they engage in their natural and instinctive behaviors, such as foraging and hunting. Frequent enrichment opportunities help keep our animals healthy and engaged.

“Everyone at the zoo loves receiving a Valentine’s – including the animals!” said Ted Fox, executive director of the zoo. “Sweet Treats gives our guests a greater understanding of animal enrichment, and the event always makes for an entertaining and educating day.”

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo looks forward to sharing this celebration with our zoo community. Don’t miss this heartwarming chance to see your favorite animals receive their valentines. This event is included with zoo admission and FREE for members.

Schedule:

10:30 a.m.

Gray Wolves (Wildlife Trail)

11 a.m.

Amur Tiger (Wildlife Trail)

11:30 a.m.

Siamang Apes (Social Animals Building)

12 p.m.

Golden Lion Tamarins (Social Animals Building)

12:30 p.m.

Humboldt Penguins (Penguin Coast Exhibit)

1 p.m.

Andean Bear (Wildlife Trail)

1:30 p.m.

Red River Hog (Wildlife Trail)

2 p.m.

Asian Elephants (Helga Beck Asian Elephant Preserve)

2:30 p.m.

River Turtles (Tropical River Exhibit)

3 p.m.

Komodo Dragon (Social Animals Building)