Since 1931, World Animal Day has been celebrated every year on 4 October, the feast day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, and is a red-letter event on every animal lover’s calendar to raise awareness of the importance of the welfare and protection of all animals, both wild and in human care.
It has been a long-standing tradition for Zoo Debrecen to bring the many wonders of the living world closer to children’s groups and families with guided tours and activities on this special day. This year, in view of the Animal Week and the Big Forest Week, it is offering thematic programs for two weeks between 2 and 15 October.
On three weekdays, registered groups from kindergarten to high school students can participate in age-appropriate zoo education and craft activities, including responsible animal husbandry and zoo conservation through hands-on experiences, and classes can also explore the wildlife of five continents through a self-guided game of worksheets. As a novelty this year, the Debrecen Police Station and the Accident and Crime Prevention Department of the Hajdú-Bihar Police Headquarters will also hold interactive presentations on crime prevention related to animal protection on several days.
This weekend, the Knowledge House will open its doors to families with animal crafts, a hands-on relic exhibition and responsible pet care sessions, who can learn about the zoo’s work to save endangered species through a themed tour and get to know animals they may not have loved before in the Palm House.
Apart from group sessions, which require prior registration, all program elements are free of charge with a zoo pass.
