December 4th marks the annual celebration of World Wildlife Conservation Day. This year, perhaps more than ever before, we have become increasingly aware of just how much we rely on the natural world- for joy, comfort, renewal, and awe. And these natural places, and the wildlife that call them home, depend on us, too. This […]
Taking time to regularly express gratitude is good for our health. The expressions of gratitude can be small or big things that we notice in our lives for which we want to give thanks. There is not a right or wrong way to express gratitude, so why not start today, by expressing some gratitude […]
There are many ways to participate in wildlife conservation, and you don’t have to venture far to do it!
Did you know you can make your own food to support birds in your community? Springtime is an especially great opportunity to help out our winged friends, many of whom are eagerly searching for food along their […]
Some animals are amazing architects! Spiders weave webs, birds build nests, and beavers construct lodges and dams while also creating a habitat for many other animals. So let’s go on a hike to hunt for these and any other animal homes we can find!
Use your sleuthing skills to search for evidence […]
Have you ever noticed that your mood may change with the weather? Maybe you feel a little happier on sunny days and a little sad on rainy or cloudy days? Or maybe you notice a very small shift in your feelings in connection with the weather, or no connection at all? Now is […]
Each year on November 21, communities across the globe unite to recognize World Fisheries Day. This is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the importance of our planet’s fisheries and the many communities and individuals who help protect and rely on these underwater resources. It is also a chance for us to reflect on […]
When kids engage in pretend (or dramatic) play, they are actively experimenting with the social and emotional roles of life. When kids pretend to be different characters, they experience “walking in someone else’s shoes,” which helps teach the important development skill of empathy. It is normal for young children to […]
Laurie Trechsel has been dedicated to animal care for decades. While her education and career started long before, Trechsel first came to the Minnesota Zoo as a keeper in 1988. Her job has shifted and shaped over the decades, yet she remained focused on providing the best care for the animals she worked alongside, using […]
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