Overview
See what it’s like to be a zookeeper and feed our quirky, colorful roseate spoonbills. This exciting experience takes you into our Florida Aviary where you will hand feed the spoonbills their favorite treat – fish! This feeding is only available for a maximum of two guests and is limited to guests ages 7 years old & up.
You must schedule this program ahead of time, at least two weeks in advance.
Would you like to learn more about spoonbills before coming to meet them? Check out our YouTube video!
Rates
- $10 per person. Maximum of 2 people, ages 7 years old and up only.
Admission is not included in Spoonbill Feeding rate.
Availability
Days available: Monday - Friday, subject to availability
Advanced registration is required at least 2 weeks prior to the desired encounter date.
Please fill out the form below to request a spoonbill feeding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have more than two people in my family. Will they be able to come and watch?
In order to keep the birds calm and increase their likelihood of participation, only the 2 participants can enter the aviary during the encounter. Family and friends can get a clear view from the attached pavilion.
How long does the feeding last?
Feeding the spoonbills takes about 20 minutes total. First you will learn about the birds and how to safely interact around them. Then you will enter the aviary and feed. Each section is about 10 minutes long.
What will I be feeding the spoonbills?
You will be feeding the spoonbills small fish. We provide non-latex gloves for adults, and we have sturdy gloves for kids, too!
Will the spoonbills bite me?
Spoonbills have incredible spoon-like beaks. If their beak touches your fingers, it feels much like two plastic spoons clapping together. Prior to your experience, keepers will demonstrate how it will feel. Past participants report it does not hurt at all!
Can I hold or touch the birds?
Our spoonbills are eager to participate in these encounters. However, they are very independent and are not touched or held. As you are feeding them you will be able to observe some of their charming behaviors from a distance.
What happens if I am late and cannot make it?
If you anticipate being late, please call the zoo main office at (352) 395-5633 as soon as possible. We cannot guarantee that zookeepers will be available to facilitate the feeding if you are beyond 10 minutes late. If you cannot make it all together, please let us know as soon as possible and we will do our best to reschedule.
Are there any other considerations for this tour?
We ask that all participants wear closed toed shoes.
Why do children have to be at least 7 years old to participate?
After trialing encounters with children under 7 years old for several months, we recognized some potential safety concerns with younger children. To ensure this is a fun, safe experience for both the birds and the participants, we increased the minimum age.
Thank you for your submission! You should receive a response from the scheduling staff within 72 hours. If you have not received a response after three business days, please call 352-395-5633 for assistance. If you are a potential student and have questions about the program, please email ZooAdvisor@sfcollege.edu.
SF Teaching Zoo Staff