FAMILIES CAN NOW REGISTER FOR A WILD SUMMER ADVENTURE
BRIDGEPORT, CT – Families can now secure their spot for a wild summer at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo as registration opens for Zoo Patrol. The zoo's immersive, hands-on youth program invites children and young teens to explore wildlife up close and experience Beardsley in a whole new way.
Each week is packed with outdoor exploration, interactive learning, and unforgettable behind-the-scenes experiences designed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of conservationists. Participants spend much of the week outside, with each day focused on a different area through custom guided adventures, animal encounters, and engaging staff-led presentations that introduce kids to enrichment, veterinary care, and real-world conservation.
Families can also add an extra dose of wildlife magic with a special Zoo Patrol add-on: an Animal Adoption Box. Kids can take home their box to remember their week and stay connected to their favorite species long after camp ends. Adoption boxes are distributed every Friday at the conclusion of that day's session and proceeds directly support the Zoo's conservation and education efforts. Boxes can be added during registration and include:
- Three mini stuffed animals
- Adoption certificate
- Animal fact card
- Animal bookmark
- "Proud to Be Saving Species" sticker
- Four-pack of crayons
Zoo Patrol is offered for children ages 7–10 and 11–13, with sessions running throughout the summer.
2026 Zoo Patrol Session Dates:
- June 29 – July 3 (Ages 11–13)
- July 6 – July 10 (Ages 7–10)
- July 13 – July 17 (Ages 11–13)
- July 20 – July 24 (Ages 7–10)
- July 27 – July 31 (Ages 11–13)
- August 3 – August 7 (Ages 7–10)
- August 10 – August 14 (Ages 7–10)
Program Details: Time: 9:00am – 12:30pm (Drop-off: 8:50–9:10am | Pick-up: 12:30pm) | Cost: $295 Zoo members / $320 non-members | Location: Hanson Building / Kathy Brady Education Center
Children should bring a nut-free snack, water bottle, sunscreen, and anything else they may need for a fun outdoor adventure.
Space is limited and sessions fill quickly. To learn more or register, visit www.beardsleyzoo.org/zoo-patrol.