Wild Learning: Zoo Programs That Come To You

As the school year winds down and summer approaches, schools are looking for engaging ways to keep students connected to learning. For classrooms unable to visit Micke Grove Zoo in person, mobile zoo programs offer an accessible way to bring the zoo experience directly to campus.

Through the zoo’s Conservation Classroom programs, students participate in interactive presentations without leaving school grounds! Programs are designed to spark curiosity about wildlife, ecosystems and conservation while connecting students to real-world science concepts. A variety of topics are available and align with California’s Next Generation Science Standards for grades TK–12. Customized programs can also be developed to support specific classroom needs and learning goals.

In addition to classroom presentations, the zoo offers assembly-style programs designed to reach multiple classes or entire grade levels. These larger programs introduce students to animals from around the world while exploring topics such as animal adaptations, conservation and careers in zoological and environmental fields.

Programs include opportunities for students to observe and learn from unique biofacts, including skulls, feathers and shells provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Many programs also feature visits from animal ambassadors, allowing students to observe live animals while learning about their habitats, behaviors and conservation challenges.

These mobile programs expand access to conservation education while strengthening connections between Micke Grove Zoo and the community.

For questions or to schedule a program, contact us at (209) 331-2138 or by email. Additional information about available programs can also be found here.

Atrium Dedication Scheduled for April 11

A special dedication event for the new Atrium California Native Plant Demonstration Garden will take place on Saturday, April 11 from 12 PM to 2 PM at the Nature Center. The garden was created in partnership with the Stockton Garden Club, whose members designed and installed this new demonstration garden space.

During the event, Garden Club members will give short talks about the garden’s design and the benefits of using California native plants in the landscape. The Oak Grove Docent Council president will also speak about the garden’s role in supporting local wildlife and enhancing the Nature Center’s educational mission.

Visitors can join docent-led walks through the new demonstration garden and along the Native Plant Trail, offering a closer look at how native plants support a thriving ecosystem. The garden is already attracting hundreds of native insects and birds, highlighting the important role native plants play in promoting biodiversity while adding natural beauty to the Nature Center grounds.


The event is free with light refreshments served. Parking $6 cash.

Support Backyard Birds: Free Kids' Nature Kits Available

Children ages 12 and under can receive free seasonal nature kits at the Nature Center, located at Shumway Oak Grove Regional Park in Stockton.

Families are invited to visit on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM to pick up a kit while supplies last. Each season features a different take-home activity designed to help children explore, study and support the natural world.

This season’s kit, Bird Nesting Materials, helps support backyard birds as they prepare their nests for spring. Each kit includes:

• A small basket
• Excelsior (natural wood fibers)
• Llama or sheep wool
  

The basket can be placed outside to offer birds safe nesting materials. Additional natural items such as twigs, lichen and moss can also be added to help birds gather what they need.

Instructions and safe material suggestions are included, making it easy for families to participate while learning more about local wildlife.

The kits provide a hands-on opportunity to observe bird behavior, learn about nesting habits and discover simple ways to help support backyard wildlife.

Now Launching: College Internship Program in Parks & Recreation

San Joaquin County Parks & Recreation introduces its new College Internship Program, developed in partnership with the County’s Human Resources Division.

The program provides college and university students with hands-on experience working in parks and at Micke Grove Zoo. Interns will collaborate with staff, contribute to active projects and build practical skills that support future careers in parks, recreation and conservation.

Opportunities are available in Animal Care & Conservation, Zoo Education Programming and Marketing & Social Media. The program is open to college and university students and offered during the fall, spring and summer terms.

Learn more and apply HERE. Also available on Handshake.

Applications are now open.

Parks and Recreation Survey Open until April 10

We’d love your feedback! San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation invites park visitors and community members to complete our Park and Facility User Experience Survey.

The survey only takes a few minutes and helps us better understand how parks, facilities and services are working for you. Take the survey today, responses are open through April 10.

We Are Hiring!

San Joaquin County Parks and Recreation is hiring for two exciting positions: Animal Care Assistant at Micke Grove Zoo and Nature Center Coordinator at Shumway Oak Grove Nature Center. Individuals interested in joining our team can learn more about these opportunities and apply using the links below.


Animal Care Assistant
Nature Center Coordinator