Scouts

Patch Programs!

Welcome to the Scout Merit Badge Patch Program at the Zoo! These exciting opportunities allow the Scouts to engage with wildlife, learn about conservation, and develop important skills related to the outdoors, animals and their habitats. Through hands-on experiences, interactive lessons, and expert-led activities, Scouts will explore the world of zoology, wildlife care, animal care, environmental stewardship, and more. This program is designed to help Scouts earn merit badges while fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and encouraging a lifelong passion for protecting wildlife. Whether you’re investigating animal behaviors, studying ecosystems, or learning how to protect endangered species, the zoo offers a unique setting for growth and discovery. Let’s embark on this adventure to explore, learn, and make a difference together! See below for Merit Badges being offered and their dates.

Want to register for group pricing or a private class? Email us at [email protected] or [email protected]

Cub Scouts: Tiger (1st grade) – Champions for Nature

As part of the World Organization of the Scouting Movement, this program is part of a global effort to teach youth about the conservation of natural resources.  This includes participating in a service project. We’re learning about recycling and renewable energy to help protect our planet! You’ll discover how recycling turns old items into new ones and how renewable energy—like solar, wind, and water—creates clean power. By the end, you’ll earn your merit badge and understand how these two things work together to make the world greener. Let’s get started and make a positive impact!

Cub Scout: Wolf (2nd grade) – Call of the Wild

The “Call of the Wild Adventure” is an exciting and educational experience designed specifically for Wolf Cub Scouts. This adventure provides an opportunity for young scouts to explore the great outdoors, learn important skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for nature.

5 Senses: Brownie (2nd and 3rd grade)

Come join us at the Zoo for a fun filled merit badge to learn about how humans and the animals use their senses to survive and live day to day! This badge will include activities and a zoo tour.

Think Like a Citizen Scientist: Junior (4th and 5th grade)

Did you know that you can be a scientist to the earth? Come see us at the Zoo to gain your Think Like a Scientist Badge! This badge will focus on how we can study and observe the world around us to gain further knowledge about what surrounds us. We will perform water quality tests and other fun experiments! There will also be a zoo tour!

POLICIES & RULES

• AGE: Guests 12 years of age and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.
• ACCESSIBILITY:  Service animals are not permitted to enter behind the scenes areas or animal habitats. Modifications for accessibility can be accommodated. Please contact us with accommodation requests at least 48 hours prior to your program to help us build the best possible experience.
• CANCELLATION: Patch Programs are non-refundable. Requests to reschedule experiences must be received at least 48 hours in advance and are subject to availability. Programs missed without prior notification will not be rescheduled. Any program involving animals is subject to change or cancellation by the Zoo based on animal or human safety considerations, including severe weather. Every effort will be made to offer alternate areas or reschedule tours.
• WAIVER: All participants must complete a liability waiver prior to the program. Parent/guardian signatures will be required for all participants 18 and under.
• CONDUCT: Participants will enter working areas of the Zoo and be in close proximity to Zoo animals. Participants must follow instructions from Zoo staff at all times. Participants who are disruptive and/or do not follow staff instructions may be removed from the encounter without a refund.