Fortunately, the winter months are ideal for restoration work or for simply taking care of routine maintenance issues. He also insists that the staff be allowed some flexibility in its planning for future events. There is a sense of calmness that allows them to put their creative hats on. In addition, there is a lot of education and outreach happening, just like during the rest of the year. Although these zoos close for the winter, it is not uncommon for a facility to re-open for a couple of days for a special event.
Weekends are no exception.
Some zoos only close to the public during the week, leaving weekends free for special activities or just visiting their favorite exhibit. The Tautphaus Park Zoo, Idaho Falls, ID, still sees a fair amount of visitors during the first part of the winter, which is primarily why administrators at the zoo decided to stay open weekends in October, November and April. However, because of staffing concerns, they are unable to stay open all year. During the months of October and November, however, when the collection changes, Gersonde explains that visitors come out to see cold-weathered animals, such as Siberian tigers. Even as the season s first frost settles, nationwide, zoos are closing their gates, temporarily.