Zoo Etiquette
For animal wellbeing, your safety, and common courtesy to other Zoo Boise guests, please review the following Zoo Etiquette guidelines with your group before visiting the zoo.
A few things TO DO and a few things NOT TO DO when visiting the zoo
Things You Can Do:
- Remain with your group. Children twelve (12) years of age and younger must be supervised at all times by an adult/guardian/caregiver (guardian must be at least 16 years of age).
- Stay on guest pathways. Keep off of railings and fences! Zoo animals are wild animals, not pets. Their habitats are designed to protect both you and the animals from harm.
- Recycle and place garbage in trash receptacles.
- Understand that animals need rest, privacy, and protection from extreme temperatures just like humans. Many animals have off-exhibit areas and may not always be available for viewing. Check back later in the day.
- DO respect all zoo animals (including people!) and zoo property. You will have a better chance of seeing animals up-close by:
- RGiving space – some animals (ducks, geese, squirrels, etc.) roam free on zoo grounds. Please do not get too close, feed them, or attempt to touch them! They will run away from you or possibly become aggressive.
- RBe still – you will be able to get a closer look than if you approach the animal quickly or make sudden movements.
- RSoft voices – Use soft voices rather than loud yelling voices. Loud voices may frighten the animals and that may cause them to remain in their dens.
Do Not:
- Tap! The habitats are animal homes and tapping on the windows may frighten or upset the animal.
- Throw objects (including food, plants, or coins) into animal habitats. The animals are on diets made specifically for their nutritional needs. Any food not given approval by the zookeepers may make the animal sick. Other objects, such as coins or pencils, may cause injury to the animals.
Prohibitied Items:
- Skateboards, bikes, scooters, roller skates, and roller shoes
- Balls
- Balloons
- Stickers
- Glass Bottles
- Drones
- Frisbees
- Smoking and vaping are also prohibited
If you do not follow these guidelines, you and your group will be asked to leave Zoo Boise.
Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy your day at Zoo Boise!
When you register for a class or program with the Zoo Boise/City of Boise, this Personal Release Statement is implied: I understand that the registered activities and services may have an element of hazard or inherent danger and I take full responsibility for my actions and physical condition. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the City of Boise and its employees from any liability loss, cost, or expense (including attorney’s fees, medical, and ambulance costs) that I may incur while participating in the Recreation activities. I give my consent to use any photographs or video taken of me in future promotional or marketing materials.