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Zoo Wild Encounters

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Jammin' with Jaguars

An Unforgettable Experience!
Get up close with one of the most revered animals in Mayan culture—our jaguars! Step behind the ancient ruins of Jaguar Jungle for a special encounter with Reina or Valerio. Under the guidance of a zookeeper, you'll learn fascinating facts about these incredible cats, see a jaguar skull and pelt up close, and even feed them skewers of chicken or beef. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience!

🕒 30 min   |   👦 Age 12+   |  📍Jaguar Jungle 
📅 Offered Fridays and Sundays at 1:30 PM
➡️ Meeting Point: Information Booth near the front gate (arrive by 1:15 PM)
🛑 For the safety of both guests and animals, physical contact with the animals is not allowed.

Book Now

💲 Non-Members: $200 per person | 💲 Members: $175 per person
Zoo admission is included in your purchase price.

Want the Member rate? Purchase an Audubon Membership >>

 

Reina the Jaguar at Audubon Zoo
jaguar at Audubon Zoo

What to Expect

✔️ Feed a Jaguar – Use tongs to safely offer them a snack.
✔️ Go Behind the Scenes – Exclusive access behind the Mayan ruins in Jaguar Jungle.
✔️ See Jaguar Artifacts – Get a close look at a real jaguar skull and pelt.
✔️ Learn from the Experts – Discover their care, training, and behavior.
✔️ Take Photos – Capture the moment from a designated viewing area (weather permitting).

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Tickets are per person. Each individual must have their own ticket.
  • Duration: ~30 minutes
  • Group Size: Up to 4 people
  • Ages: 12+ (Minors must be accompanied by a paid adult)
  • Attire: Close-toed shoes required
  • Meeting Point: Information Booth near the front gate (arrive by 1:15 PM)

🛑 All Wild Encounters operate under protected contact guidelines. Guests will not enter enclosures or have direct physical contact with the animals. Interactions occur from a safe distance under expert supervision.

⚠️ Availability is limited—reserve your Wild Encounter today!

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Your support strengthens our conservation efforts!

 

Audubon Nature Institute reserves the right to alter or cancel any program due to the animals’ well-being, severe weather conditions, or facility availability. Audubon Nature Institute also reserves the right to remove any participant from the program that the staff feels is endangering themselves, other participants, or the animals or if he/she is disruptive to the other participants. Programs will not occur in the rain and will be rescheduled or a refund issued. Any guest under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances will not be permitted to participate in the program, and no refund will be given. The animal’s participation in the programs is strictly voluntary. The interaction will end if they choose not to interact with the participant. Audubon Nature Institute will reschedule in this incident, or a refund will be given. The experience is in a behind-the-scenes location and is only accessible to paid guests on the tour.

 

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