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? Apply to 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.

Please note that these programs have very limited space available, as we only accept 8 participants per session. Teens should apply to the program for their age group; applications will then be reviewed to allow us to make selections for the 8 spots we have in each session. We will request payment at a later date (but before the program start date) for participants who will be accepted into each program.

 

Program Details

JUNIOR ZOO TEEN NATURALIST (AGES 13–14)

The Buffalo Zoo Education Department offers the Junior Zoo Teen Naturalist Program for teens ages 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 am–3:00 pm on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday (for a total of 6 days).

FOR TEEN 13–14 YEARS OLD

PROGRAM FEE: $325 members/$360 non-members

2024 program information and application coming soon!

DAYS/TIMES: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 10:00 am–3:00 pm

*Program is limited to 8 participants per session.

 

ZOO TEEN NATURALIST (AGES 15–17)

The Buffalo Zoo Education Department offers the Zoo Teen Naturalist Program for teens ages 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 am–3:00 pm on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (for a total of 6 days).

FOR TEENS 15–17 YEARS OLD

PROGRAM FEE: $325 members/$360 non-members

2024 program information and application coming soon!

DAYS/TIMES: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 10:00 am-3:00 pm

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.

 

PLEASE CALL 716-995-6143 WITH ANY QUESTIONS