Predators and Prey
Learn about the differences between predators and prey, how they are vital to the food web and a healthy ecosystem. This tour also includes a game that looks at what animals have been introduced into Arizona and how those animals are affecting the food web and the niches of the animals native to the state.
Animals and Their Environment
How many animals can fit in an enclosure? How is this number determined? How does this translate to ecosystems outside the sanctuary? Students will learn about limiting factors and carrying capacity by learning about how animals are taken care of at the sanctuary and through a trip down to Willow Lake to look at the ecosystem there. Students will observe what animals and plants live at the lake and learn about how they interact.
Common, Endangered and Extinct
With the Zoo's multitude of animals, we have many that are endangered, threatened and common. With this program, students will get an in-depth look at what causes extinction, what can be done to prevent it, and the actions that are already being taken to preserve wildlife. Along with a close look at the Endangered Mexican Grey Wolves and Tortoises at the Zoo, students will also learn about animals that used to live in Arizona, and find out why they no longer live here.
Animal Anatomy
Why do some tortoises have spurs on their legs? How do herbivores process food compared to carnivores? Why do amphibians have such slimy skin? Why are the feet of a raccoon so different from those of a fox? Learn about different anatomical structures and physiological processes of a variety of animals and how their different systems function by observing live animals and animal skulls and skins.