In preparation for our 5k event in August I had the pleasure of meeting with Jamie Matzinger, marketing director at Indian Creek Zoo.
We talked about when Indian Creek Zoo started and how it stands out from other zoos in the area. If you’re looking for a quality zoo that prides itself on animal care as well as guest experience, look no further.
Welcome to Indian Creek Zoo
This 40-acre zoo houses over 80 species and over 400 animals in total, with most of them coming from zoo rescues and zoo organizations that Indian Creek Zoo is a part of.
Since 2014, families have visited this zoo to see their most beloved animals such as the giraffes, sloths, lemurs, black bears and zebras. However, those are not the only animals that reside there. People will find kangaroos, wolves, peacocks, camels, donkeys and so much more.
Out of their wide variety of animals, the critically endangered ones include the red ruffed lemurs and Bactrian camels. The most exotic include the giraffe and the Siberian Lynx.
Caring for every animal
Indian Creek Zoo’s first priority is making sure the animals are happy and safe. To achieve this, 20 to 30 employees are required including volunteers. Volunteers play such a big part at the zoo because they perform animal enrichments, which is where they make sure the animals are happy and healthy in their habitat.
Every animal has gotten its name from zoo owner Joe or from the public. One giraffe was named “Puzzles” because of all of his spots that looked like pieces to a puzzle. On the topic of Puzzles, during our meeting I asked Jamie if she had a funny story to share.
One time there were a couple visitors wearing safari gear (hats, sunglasses, and so forth). Puzzles yanked one of the visitor’s hats off! The owner, Joe, had to go in and get it.
A look at the year ahead
For 2021, families can look forward to more kid activities, like jumbo jumper pillows, as well as divulging in more food and snack options.
From April 1st to December 30th, this zoo’s motto is “get wildly close.” They take pride in families being able to experience what it’s like to have close encounters with some of the animals.
For example, visitors can get close to the sloths, feed them, pet them and take pictures with them. If sloths aren’t your thing, come out for a giraffe experience with Puzzles (preferably with a safari hat).
This year has also brought a new partnership between Indian Creek Zoo and Endurance Athletics. We’ll be hosting our 2nd Annual 5K for the Kids at this amazing facility, along with a family night at the zoo for those who don’t want to participate in the walk/run. We promise fun for every family member!
For event details visit our registration page.
And for more information on Indian Creek Zoo, click here.
