Animal Care Academy 
Program Dates: August 4th-8th
Program Times: 10am-3pm
Program Cost: $220 for Salisbury Zoo Members. Price for non-members is $250.
Program Description: Step into the wild world of animal care with Animal Care Academy, a week-long immersive camp designed for teens ages 13-16! This unique program gives participants an in-depth look at what it’s like to work at a zoo, with hands-on experiences guided by our expert zoo staff.
Throughout the week, students will explore the many facets of animal care, from daily routines and habitat maintenance to animal enrichment and training techniques. They will learn about the responsibilities involved in caring for a variety of species and gain insights into the vital work that goes into animal health, behavior, and conservation efforts.
By the end of the week, students will not only have a deeper understanding of zoo operations but will also develop practical skills, including enrichment planning, animal behavior observation, and more. It’s the perfect opportunity for any teen interested in a career in zoology, animal care, or conservation.
This camp takes place both inside and outside. Students should come prepared in weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes. Students should bring a water bottle and a lunch each day with a half-hour lunch break at noon. Spaces are limited.
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Wor-Wic Summer Scholars
Summer Scholars is a summer enrichment program hosted by Wor-Wic Community College that offers week-long courses for children during the summer. The Salisbury Zoo leads a variety of courses on topics that relate to zookeeping, animals around the world, and conservation. These are half-day courses taught by knowledgeable Salisbury Zoo Education staff. Students will learn about their topic both in the classroom and outside, meet zoo animal ambassadors, and even take a field trip to the Salisbury Zoo! These courses provide a great opportunity for students to receive a hands-on approach to learning about animals and the zookeeping field. Courses are typically catered to children entering grades 3-7. Registration for 2025 courses is open now! One-week courses are offered on campus Monday through Friday, beginning July 7 and ending Aug. 1.
REGISTER HERE
Courses offered 2025:
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Exploring the Animal Planet:
Explore the incredible world of animals, their natural environment, and what makes them unique. Students will classify the many varieties of animal species such as invertebrates, fish, reptiles/amphibians, birds, and mammals as scientists do. Students will have the exciting opportunity to closely observe creatures and their behaviors in their natural and zoo habitats, as well as evaluate the importance of preservation and protection of animals, plants, and their homes. This course is for students entering grades 3-4.
Animals Around the World:
Embark on a thrilling adventure to explore the fascinating world of animals! Learn about the incredible diversity of wildlife across the globe. Students will explore a different continent each day. From the deserts of Africa to the rainforests of South America, participants will study unique habitats, behaviors, and adaptations of various animal species. This course is for students entering grades 3-4.
Jr. Zookeeper:
Go behind the scenes to learn what working in a zoo is all about and spend a morning working with the Salisbury Animal Care Technicians during a trip to the zoo. Learn about the different skills required to work as a zookeeper, including animal handling, cleaning, and the importance of record keeping. Be prepared to get your hands dirty and learn how to diet prep for the educational animals at the zoo! Study animal care to learn how to create enrichment. Get a chance to develop and implement a class enrichment project and collect data on it using animals at the zoo! This course is for students entering grades 5-7.
Zoo Crew
Program Dates: Session 1: June 16th – July 12th
Session 2: July 21st – August 16th
Program Times: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat
Program length: 10-3pm
Program Ages: 14-17
Program Costs: $50 registration fee
Minimum 2 days a week and at home work.
Program Description: The Zoo Crew program offers teens aged 14-17 the unique opportunity to step into the world of zoo volunteering and learn what it takes to work behind the scenes in a dynamic animal care environment. Over the course of the 4-week session, participants will gain hands-on experience, learning how to assist with zoo operations, animal care, education, and conservation efforts. This program is treated like a job, with a minimum 10-hour weekly commitment, including both in-person duties and online coursework to complete from home.
Participants will have the chance to work alongside zoo staff, assist with animal care, and contribute to educational programs and events, all while developing valuable work skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and time management. Since spots are limited, students must interview for the position, and successful applicants will be selected based on their enthusiasm, dedication, and ability to work as part of the team. The Zoo Crew program is the perfect way for young people to gain professional experience in an exciting and educational setting while making a real impact on the zoo community.