Teen Naturalist Programs

Program Description

Are you interested in a fun summer educational experience at the Buffalo Zoo, and are between the ages of 13 and 17? Then become a Zoo Teen Naturalist! Our teen programs are tailored for those who have a genuine interest in learning more about animals, want to engage in conservation education, and are excited to participate in unique opportunities and hands-on experiences.

How to Register:

Click here to Register- http://app.campdoc.com/register/buffalozoo

-Registration is done through the online registration program, CampDoc. You will need to either use a current CampDoc login, or sign up using the link above.

-Once you are logged in, you will be able to register your teen for the program by adding them as a new “Participant.”

-Click “Register for a new session” to find the Teen Naturalist program as one of the Buffalo Zoo’s program options. There are 2 sessions to choose from. You may only choose 1.

-Program payment will be made directly on the CampDoc site.

-The Health Profile section, questions for your teen, and TB test results can be finalized in your Camp Doc account up to a week before the program start date.

Scholarship program

Our need-based scholarship provides financial assistance to ensure the program is accessible to teens who would not otherwise be able to participate. The number of scholarships is limited. Applications will be reviewed for eligibility and awarded on a rolling basis.

Click here for scholarship application- 2025 Summer Teen Naturalist Scholarship

Program Details

2025 JUNIOR ZOO TEEN NATURALIST (AGES 13–14)

The Buffalo Zoo Education Department offers the Junior Zoo Teen Naturalist Program for teens aged 13-14 who are interested in animals and conservation education. Each week will include hands-on activities and special opportunities. This is a two-week program that takes place 10:00-3:00 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday (for a total of 6 days).

For teens 13-14 years old

Program Fee: $325 members/ $360 non-members

Session 1: July 14-16, 21-23

Session 2: July 28-30, Aug. 4-6

Days/Times: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 10:00-3:00

Program is limited to 8 participants per session.

2025 ZOO TEEN NATURALIST (AGES 15–17)

The Buffalo Zoo Education Department offers the Zoo Teen Naturalist Program for teens aged 15-17 who have a serious interest in animals and animal-related careers. Each week will include hands-on activities, animal handling, animal interpretation, and special opportunities. This is a two-week program that takes place 10:00-3:00 on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (for a total of 6 days).

For teens 15-17 years old

Program Fee: $325 members/ $360 non-members

Session 1: July 16-18, 23-25

Session 2: July 30-31, Aug. 1, 6-8

Days/Times: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 10:00-3:00

Program is limited to 8 participants per session.

THINGS TO KNOW:

Participants will enter through the Buffalo Zoo main entrance gate at 10:00 am and should be picked up at the same entrance at 3:00 pm.

NO LUNCHES ARE PROVIDED due to individual food preferences, allergies, and dietary restrictions. Participants should bring a bagged lunch.

Appropriate clothing must be worn. The program will operate rain or shine so participants should dress for the weather. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Flip flops and sandals are not allowed.

Tuberculosis testing is required. As a standard procedure, all zoo staff members, volunteers and other individuals who come in close contact with the animals are required to undergo annual testing for TB. Written proof of negative TB test results is required prior to the start of the program.