Amid coronavirus outbreak, Birmingham Zoo launches virtual zoo on social media
As Americans adjust to staying home during the coronavirus outbreak, one local business is trying to help fill the void of boredom. On Monday, the Birmingham Zoo announced that even though it is closed to the public, dedicated zoo staff have successfully launched a virtual zoo on social media. Already having gained thousands of views across the country, the new content aims to keep guests at home connected to the organization and animals they love. The zoo is allowing the public to follow along on Facebook and Instagram and have the opportunity to virtually tour the grounds and behind the scenes areas, learn what’s new at the Zoo, and meet their animal neighbors too. Starting today, the Zoo will host Virtual Zoo Camp on Facebook each weekday at 11 a.m. CT. Each 10-minute episode will include an engaging activity for the entire family to enjoy. Episodes will range from special behind the scenes tours of the Zoo, interesting lessons about animals and Birmingham Zoo conservation work in our own backyard and all around the world. The Zoo’s Education staff will be online to answer questions and chat with our virtual campers about the day’s lesson. In addition to offering virtual programs, the zoo’s social media will continue to highlight various animals through our Meet the Neighbors campaign. Each day at 1 p.m., viewers will have a chance to watch a short clip of our animals, learn about their behaviors, and meet the Animal Care Professionals who care for them daily. Zoo Members will also receive an email video every Monday with exclusive content just for them. “The Zoo truly values our supporters,” said Birmingham Zoo President and CEO, Chris Pfefferkorn. “We want to ensure now, more than ever, that they stay connected to our animals and programs. Our staff has an opportunity to provide a positive impact in a very uncertain time for many individuals throughout the community. The support we have received has been immense and heartfelt—this is just a small way we can show our gratitude.” Birmingham Zoo Social Media Program SchedulePlease note: this schedule is tentative and subject to change Virtual Zoo Camp : Monday – Friday @ 11 a.m. on Facebook March 23 – Animal Nutrition Tour March 24 – Coloration/Camouflage March 25 – Animal Tracking March 26 – Veterinary Team (Birds) March 27 – Zooniverse March 30 – Training Class March 31 – Bird Beaks April 1 – Adaptations April 2 – Careers Meet the Neighbors : Daily @ 1 p.m. on Facebook & Instagram March 23 – Lion Feeding March 24 – Animals Exploring Zoo March 25 – Goat Weighing March 26 – Fishing Cat March 27 – Sea Lion Training March 28 – Flying Birds March 29 – Collective Nouns March 30 – Hawk Training March 31 – Otter Enrichment April 1 – Mr. Whiskers on Henley Park April 2 – Shake It Off April 3 – I Love Bham Zoo Member Exclusive Email Video : Every Monday March 23 -Flamingo Roundup March 30 – Bobcat Training
