September 25, 2026
Milwaukee County Zoo • Milwaukee, WI
DETAILS
Get up-close and personal
to a variety of species and
learn how the animals’ health
and well-being are cared for
A full day of 5 scientific CE credits,
including courses that align with
a variety of interests and professional
development needs
See all the attractions across the
190-acre site, home to over 2,400
animals and 340 species with a focus
on education and conservation
Make valuable connections
with peers from various clinics
and backgrounds, expand your
knowledge and have a blast
SCHEDULE
7:30 a.m. Registration & Breakfast
9 a.m. Animal Experiences
9:30 a.m. Zoo Opens to Public
10 a.m. CE Lectures
11:15 a.m. CE Lectures
12:15 p.m. Lunch
12:45 p.m. Ambassador Animals
1:30 p.m. CE Lectures
3 p.m. Animal Experiences
4 p.m. Q&A and Snacks with Dr. Christy
5:15 p.m. Event Ends
For more detail, read your June Voice cover story, to find out why WVMA President Dr. Brian Darkow thinks Zoo School is so cool.
ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
Small Animal, Food Animal, and Equine CE tracks are bookended by two of these animal experiences.
Witness the impressive outdoor routine of African elephants as they engage in staff-led activities that maintain their health and well-being. Learn about the daily care routines and husbandry practices of these majestically massive creatures, as well as their social dynamics and natural behaviors. The training wall allows an up-close experience from the safety of a covered pavilion.
Observe the graceful movements of the tallest land animals in the world from the indoor enclosure. Listen as the zookeeper provides a deeper understanding of the everyday lives, adaptations, husbandry practices, and daily care routines of these gentle giants.
Learn about the fascinating worlds of Gentoo and Rockhopper Penguins. These flightless beauties native to South America’s coastal regions exhibit playful antics and endearing personalities. Hear how their black and white plumage serves as camouflage from predators while hunting fish and squid, and how their wings serve as flippers to propel their streamlined bodies forward in the water.
Tending to the physical health and overall well-being of every animal in the zoo is a demanding but rewarding job for the Animal Health Center staff. With a focus on preventive medicine, this team cares for a collection of unique animals, each with individual health needs. This is your chance to get a private tour and in-depth look at the quarantine and treatment spaces where this specialized care is provided.
Get an inside look at a feeding and training session for lions or hyenas. Zoo staff share details about the power of these powerful predators. Hear the vital role of training and how it complements natural instincts when providing daily care. View enrichment activities that give the big cats the space and freedom to do what comes naturally.
Caring for marine mammals presents a whole new set of challenges than those of the zoo’s land-dwelling cohorts. The animal care staff will share interesting facts about the harbor seals, including behaviors, diet, and care routines, during a training session that offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of these intelligent creatures.
View the underwater world of the Amazon Basin from above the indoor environment tank. The zookeeper will discuss the intricacies of this rich ecosystem, sharing insights into the lives and husbandry practices of the various species. During a fish feed, learn about the behaviors, dietary preferences, and conservation efforts aimed to preserve biodiversity.
Swing into the world of these fascinating primates in a naturalized outdoor habitat while hearing about their intricate matriarchal social structures, unique behaviors, adaptability, and intelligence. Learn the importance of conservation efforts in place to protect the many endangered macaque species. And meet the staff on the overlook deck to observe a macaque enrichment opportunity.
Go behind the scenes of an immersive tank exhibit replicating the vibrant underwater world of Wisconsin’s lakes. Amidst the gently swaying aquatic vegetation and rocky outcrops is a diverse array of fish species. Learn about the importance of preserving these delicate habitats and the role each species plays in maintaining the health of Wisconsin waters.
Inca terns, seabirds native to the Pacific coast of South America, are known for their striking appearance, with black and white plumage, red bills, and distinctive white mustaches. They primarily feed on small fish skillfully caught by diving from the air. Assist with supplying food to the Inca terns during this private session in the indoor aviary.
Visit the serene surroundings of the outdoor flamingo habitat as the knowledgeable staff shares engaging commentary on the lives and care of these beautiful residents. Hear about their social behavior, diet, and healthcare needs, and gain a deeper understanding of these captivating creatures and their importance to the ecosystem.
BRAND NEW! Meet Zuri and Kianga up close in the brand-new rhino care center.
BRAND NEW! Hang out with the two-humped majestic mammals from Central Asia.
LOCATION
Questions? Call 608-257-3665 or email wvma@wvma.org.
Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee, WI
Dates: Friday, September 25
Address: 10001 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226
Parking and Entry: Zoo School attendees can park in Lot #1 and will arrive before the zoo officially opens. Please let the person at the gate know you are there for the WVMA event. Once parked, enter at the front doors and register at the WVMA table in the lobby.
Thank you to our Event Partner
