Audubon Zoo adds 7 new interactive animal experiences

By the numbers: The wild encounters require a separate ticket in addition to zoo admission. Prices vary by experience but range from $15 to $200 per person.

• Many have age requirements for children.

Between the lines: The aquarium has offered two popular experiences for years — snorkeling in the Mayan reef exhibit and the Penguin Party. This move marks an expansion to the zoo and insectarium.

• The zoo's free petting zoo, Watoto Farm, closed during the pandemic and hasn't reopened.

The latest: Here's a rundown of the new interactive experiences.

• Jammin' with Jaguars: Meet Reina or Valerio (the infamous jaguar who escaped) and feed them meat skewers.
• Black Bear Bonanza: Meet the three black bears and feed them lettuce.

• Giant Tortoise Adventure: Meet the zoo's oldest residents and feed them a vegetable skewer.
• Alpaca Palooza: Hand-feed Bonito and the alpaca herd their favorite snacks.
• Butterfly First Flight: Learn about butterfly lifecycles and release a butterfly into the garden for its first flight.
• Orangutan Family Fun: Feed the orangutans fruit and vegetable skewers.
• Sea Lion Splash: Take a behind-the-scenes tour and talk with their trainers.

What's next: The zoo will add an alligator feeding experience in the spring.

Go deeper: Full details about Audubon's wild encounters