The Henson Robinson Zoo Education Department invites you to join the fascinating world of education as you have never experienced it before! We are committed to providing quality educational opportunities for all ages and all degrees of learning ability. Our goal is to promote the conservation message that animals can portray on a local and global level.

We would like to offer you the opportunity to stretch your student�s understanding of animals. There is nothing that can compare to the impact living animals can make right in your classroom. That is why we travel throughout Illinois in our "Cheetah Van" visiting education groups with our live animals. Our dynamic explorations of the animal kingdom feature lively lectures, demonstrations and sometimes animal biofacts (feathers, snake sheds, etc.).

Live Animal Programs are fun and exciting. They instill knowledge, and an interest and a concern for nature in today�s youth or adults. Best of all, these programs are available at very moderate rates.

Presentations are given by trained education personnel who provide insight into each animal�s habitat, eating patterns, and personality.

If you do not see a topic that fits your particular course of study, please contact us and a program may be adapted or modified. We will try to accommodate your request for any presentation that will enhance your curriculum.

Please take advantage of this unique opportunity for your group to learn more about wildlife and our environment. You have a rewarding adventure in learning awaiting you!

Sincerely,

The Henson Robinson Zoo Education Staff

Due to the popularity of Live Animal Programs, please call the Education Department a minimum of five (5) weeks in advance before the date of your event.

To schedule a Live Animal Program, or if you have questions or comments, contact:

Henson Robinson Zoo is a tax supported entity, therefore, any Live Animal Programs performed inside the city limits of Springfield, IL are free of charge.

A fee of $50 for one program is charged outside the Springfield city limits, additional programs cost $30 each. A 36.5 cents per mile charge is also applied for travel round-trip from the zoo. If you wish to make a donation, it will be utilized to expand educational programs at the zoo.

If you would like to "adopt" an animal for your classroom or school, call the zoo for more information on how you can assist the zoo in providing care for our animals.

Wings and Talons

Explore the role of the powerful, federally protected birds of prey and learn why they are so important to us. Discover some important adaptations like "wings and talons."

Discover animals that we share many common characteristics with. Soft, fuzzy, or sharp; see and touch many textures of hair and learn why mammals are many times "man's best friend."

Learn about the wonders of the reptile world and dispel many myths and misconceptions that people have about these scaly creatures.

Gain greater understanding of the animals found around the world by exploring their habitats and learning about what you can do to assist world conservation.

Spiders, snakes, and roaches are all animals we love to hate. Do these creatures really deserve their dreadful reputations? Find out more about these and other "unloved" animals.

Discover how animals have adapted to life in their surroundings, from their role in the environment to protecting themselves.

Discover animals of Illinois, from birds to mammals to reptiles. Learn about their habitats and how they survive from changes through the seasons.