The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College hosted their annual spooktacular event, Boo at the Zoo, during the final weekends of October.

Boo at the Zoo is a family-friendly Halloween event for all ages, being the perfect precursor to get people in the spooky spirit. The event occurred across two weekends from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the first celebration on Oct. 21 and 22. The event then continued across the weekend of Oct. 28 and 29, falling just before Halloween.

Visitors experienced a day full of activities, such as trick or treating, visiting various zoo animals and participating in arts and crafts. Other activities such as scavenger hunts, wildlife programs, stopping for a bite to eat at the food trucks and numerous photo opportunities were also available at the event.

Events like Boo at the Zoo are an accessible and entertaining way for the local community to learn more about the animals residing there while also getting into the Halloween spirit.

Mara Rodriguez, the zoo development coordinator of The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College, exclaimed her adoration for this event.

“It gives family and friends the opportunity to get outside and connect with wildlife while helping the mission of the zoo by generating revenue,” Rodriguez explained. “It’s a great opportunity to educate the public that we’re here.”

Rodriguez also expressed an adoration for seeing everyone dressed up and seeing how some of the animals react to their costumes.

“The animals don’t really see it often, so the big inflatable things, they’re definitely dialed into those,” Rodriguez emphasized.

With over 130 animals of more than 90 species, Moorpark College’s zoo is particularly special because it is the only community college zoo in the United States that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums has accredited. This creates a uniquely rewarding environment, not only for students who attend Moorpark College to enjoy in their spare time, but especially for those planning their careers in zoology and other related fields.

Allison VanKirk, a second-year student in Moorpark College’s Exotic Animal Training and Management Program, explained how these significant events are excellent preparation for her future career and transition into the workforce.

“Big events like Boo at the Zoo are great because when we get out on the field, things like that are happening all the time at much bigger facilities, so this is definitely helpful in preparation of that.”

Free parking was available in the lot by the zoo, and tickets could be purchased by eventgoers online. Limited tickets were available by the gate. The entrance fee for adults cost $12 and for children and seniors, $10. Children under two years of age were able to attend for free.

The zoo can be located on Moorpark College’s campus, at 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark, and is open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year for students and visitors alike.

For more information on The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College, click here.