Daily Animal Encounter Programs
Updated November 23, 2009

Presentations are subject to cancellation without notice. Because our exhibits are always changing some animals may not be on exhibit when you come to the Zoo. Be sure to check your map insert for the times of other animal encounter programs.

California Sea Lion Training and Meet the Keeper 11:00am
Our California sea lions are fed every day at 11am. We offer educational presentations prior to the feedings at 10:45am.  All presentations are free and visitors are encouraged to find a seat early. Click here to learn more about sea lions (http://www.elpasotexas.gov/elpasozoo/sea_lion.htm)

California Sea Lion Training and Meet the Keeper 3:00pm
Meet an Education Specialist to learn more about our California sea lions for a Question and Answer Session every day from 2:45pm to 3:10pm.  Please note that there is no sea lion training session at this time.   Click here to learn more about sea lions (http://www.elpasotexas.gov/elpasozoo/sea_lion.htm)

Asian Elephant Training Encounters at Noon
Join us at the Elephant Exhibit across from the orangutans for a fascinating look at Savannah and Juno as they go through their daily training program. Our elephants are trained through a technique called protective contact. The trainer does not share the same restricted space with the elephant and there is always a barrier between the elephant and the trainer. We use operant conditioning, a positive reinforcement system, to train our elephants for medical procedures. Many of these techniques are what you see today. The elephant has the choice to obey the keeper’s request or not; however, if the elephant does not obey, they do not receive the praise, or food, rewards. Click here to lean more about elephants (http://www.elpasotexas.gov/elpasozoo/elephantaction.htm)

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