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Learning From the Animals

Education is second nature at Naples Zoo

Growing up in the 70’s, Tim Tetzlaff can’t remember a time he wasn’t surrounded by nature and wildlife. The great outdoors was his classroom. Maybe that’s why he is so at home at the Naples Zoo where he serves as Director of Conservation. If you grew up in the Midwest, you may remember his parents, Jungle Larry and Safari Jane. They’re responsible for bringing the jungle to Naples in the 60’s.

So what happened to “Go outside and play?" Child advocacy expert Richard Louv calls it ‘nature deficit disorder’ and Tim agrees.

“If you look at the statistics like obesity, attention disorders and depression, you can see a link to a lack of time spent outside. Nature is key for healthy childhood development both physically and mentally.”

A 2002 British study reported that 8 year olds could identify Pokemon characters more easily than an otter or an oak tree. Tim’s mission is to change that. And he’s happy to report that a growing number of educational programs at the zoo are attracting young and old alike. Summer Camp Wild is a week-long series, Monday through Friday that immerses children 5-10 years old, in nature. The Safari Squad is designed for children 3-5 who participate with an adult. Classes feature an animal encounter, storybook reading, creative art and nature-based activities.

Maggie Woosley is Director of Education. She studied biology and physiology in college and had every intention of becoming a nurse until a summer job at the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago changed her mind. She ended up working there for several years before joining the staff at Naples Zoo. She then went back to school to get her masters in biology and also became a Certified Educator with National Geographic.

“We have over 20,000 students participating each year in ZooCon. It’s a video conference specific to Collier County schools. Each grade level has a different program and they get to hear from experts about nature and the animals. So instead of opening up a book and reading about it, they get to experience it. And that experience hopefully leads to a better understanding and a new found respect for wildlife.”

Evidence shows that environment based education improves standardized test score and grade point averages and helps to develop skills in problem solving, decision making. Getting involved in nature can also stimulate creativity. Still, many young people would rather go to computer camp than spend time outdoors.

Maggie and Tim are happiest when they see a child truly connect with nature. They have witnessed youngsters build a comfort level at the zoo and a realization that nature is good and should be protected. And they believe you are never too old to learn. As part of his job, Tim hosts safaris for members. He heard from an elderly woman who went on the trip because it was on her husband’s bucket list and he couldn’t find another travel buddy. She ended up having the time of her life and couldn’t thank him enough.

“I think of myself as a relationship builder,” said Tim. “That’s how you make things happen.”

“I consider myself a professional kid,” added Maggie. “I get to play for a living.”

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a nonprofit charitable organization caring for rare species both in and outside the wild through conservation and education programs that create a better future for both people and wildlife. With the support of visitors, members, and donors, Naples Zoo has invested over 2 million dollars in saving plants and animals in the wild since 2014. See our current field conservation programs at NaplesZoo.org/conserve.  

1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd                                                                                           

Zooline: 239.262.5409

Naples Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the international organization that sets the highest standards for wildlife institutions. Learn more how you can join in supporting Naples Zoo to create a better future for all living things.

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