Milwaukee County Zoo announces details for Behind-the-Scenes weekend

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — The Milwaukee County Zoo is hosting its Behind the Scenes Weekend on March 9 and 10.

During the special weekend, visitors can see the underground enclosures where warm-weather animals live during winter, learn how food items are prepared for small mammals like the North American river otters and two-toed sloth, and get an up-above and up-close look at the Lake Wisconsin Exhibit in the Aquatic & Reptile Center.

On Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., special behind-the-scenes areas will be open to the public for tours. All of the locations are designed to give visitors a new appreciation for all the work that takes place “behind closed doors” at the Zoo.

Some tour highlights include the Sensory Safari where you can reach out and touch animal mounts, the Elk Barn to learn more about the North American mammal, the Winter Quarters to see the warm exhibit area below the Big Cat Country, the Small Mammals' Kitchen to see what the tiniest animals eat and learn about the toys they like most, Giraffes to learn about the world's largest terrestrial animal.

All tours are included in regular Zoo admission and conducted on a first come, first serve basis. Admission is $13 for adults, $10 for kids 3-12, $11.50 for seniors 60 and over. Parking costs $12. Milwaukee County residents get $1.75 off regular Zoo admission.