Proudly sponsored by Williams Auto Group
Wild Encounters
Dates are open THROUGH DECEMBER!
book your encounter now!
Our adult Red Pandas are ready to greet you this fall and winter! Don’t miss out, book your encounter today!
Interested in a Wild Encounter, but don’t have a group to join you? You can book a Wild Encounter as an individual on Mondays! Please note that up to 4 people can book a Wild Encounter on Mondays and will all participate at the same time.
Policies
Each encounter accommodates a maximum of 4 people. Group Encounters are offered on Fridays and Saturdays for $300 per group. Individuals can secure a spot for a Monday Wild Encounter for $75. Please note that the individual Wild Encounters on Mondays may include up to 4 unrelated participants.
- Up to 4 participants can join the experience.
- After completing payment, our team will send you a waiver that includes the rules to complete for each participant. Please note that ALL participants must have a signed waiver in order to participate in the experience (under 18 will be completed by parent/guardian).
- Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an individual aged 18 or older.
- Although hands-on interactions are restricted, you will get very close and have an opportunity to offer food to the animals.
- You must adhere to instructions from our knowledgeable educators and esteemed animal care staff.
- Encounters are non-refundable.
"Thank you! It was awesome! Isabella is still talking about it."
Tim Skinner, Ed.D
LACM Chair/Professor
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the Encounters take place?
With thanks to Williams Toyota of Binghamton, there is a specialized encounter space that participants will enter that is attached to the habitat of the Red Pandas.
What is included in the Encounter?
Our encounter program is an in-depth experience into the world of Red Pandas where you will meet with our Animal Care staff to learn about their species and even offer food to our Red Pandas, although it is up to our Red Pandas to decide their level of participation. This choice aligns with modern conservation and education goals, enhancing the well-being of the animals.
Do I purchase a ticket for each individual participant?
Only if you are purchasing tickets for an individual encounter!
The group rate reserves your time slot for a maximum of 4 people; there is no need to purchase individual tickets.
What if there is bad weather on the day of my Encounter?
In the event of inclement weather - categorized as severe storms resulting in the closure of the zoo - we will work with you to reschedule your Encounter!
What if I need to switch my Encounter date, or want a refund?
We are able to switch your Encounter to another open date, and will work with you to find another opening. Refunds are available up to 24 hours before your Encounter date; cancellations the day of will result in full payment.
Due to the nature of the Red Panda Encounters, there are no refunds after the event.
Can I feed the Red Pandas?
Yes! Special treats may be offered, but it is up to the pandas as to their level of engagement. This shift aligns with modern conservation and education goals, enhancing the well-being of the animals.
Can I touch the Red Pandas?
We do not allow participants to touch the Red Pandas. Zoos nationwide are focusing more on animal welfare, promoting natural behaviors, and reducing unnecessary human contact. We are committed to providing ethical practices that focus on animal choice.
What is "animal choice?"
At the Ross Park Zoo, we are centered around the concept of "animal choice" - meaning that we allow the Red Pandas to choose between participating or not. It is completely up to the animal’s preference as to how up close and personal they get. In either capacity, we will do what we can to make this experience as amazing and memorable as possible!
Can I have an Encounter with the new babies?
Our two new Red Panda cubs are not part of the Wild Encounter. They are still weaning and need their vaccination series before going on exhibit in November. Your Encounter will be with our adult Red Pandas, who are just as adorable!
Additional questions about dates or the booking process? Please contact us at:
Phone Number