Choose this unforgettable experience for a zookeeper-led, behind-the-scenes look at one of the zoo’s most beloved animals: seals!
Bring a friend, a partner, your family, or a small group of friends and join us for a ZooBuilder adventure at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. ZooBuilder programs are designed to be both educational and engaging, offering a rare opportunity to connect more deeply with the animals and the people who care for them.
Each ZooBuilder Encounter is a 60-minute, private experience for one group of up to four people, with only one ZooBuilder encounter offered per week! Seal ZooBuilder Encounters are scheduled each Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The Seal ZooBuilder Encounter takes you behind-the-scenes of our Arctic Shores exhibit, home to two species of pinnipeds: harbour seals and northern fur seals! During your visit, you’ll learn about the daily care and dedication that goes into keeping these intelligent, graceful animals healthy and thriving.
Your encounter includes helping prepare the seals’ diets for the day and learning how our behavioural training program supports both physical and mental wellbeing. You’ll observe a live training session and discover how the seals are taught to participate in their own health care. To conclude the tour, you’ll head out onto the Arctic Shores beach for a close-up view of the seals swimming and playing in their outdoor pool.
A 1-2 person encounter is $250; a 3-4 person encounter is $500. When you donate through the ZooBuilder Program, your contribution directly supports future zoo projects. Your generosity helps improve animal habitats and ensures that future generations of Edmonton families can continue to enjoy and learn from the zoo. The Valley Zoo Development Society is deeply grateful for your support.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
The safety of our animals, guests, and staff is our top priority. By checking the “I agree” box prior to purchase, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to comply with the following Terms & Conditions. If you are unable to agree to these terms at this time, please contact us to discuss your concerns or consider rebooking your experience for a future date.
PROTOCOLS
NEW! AVIAN INFLUENZA SAFETY PROTOCOL: For the safety of our seals, we require guests to refrain from handling or interacting with any birds (wild or domestic) within 24 hours before their program. We also kindly ask that guests wear clean clothing and footwear that has not recently been in contact with avian species or environments, such as farms, aviaries, or sanctuaries.
Additionally:
- Masks must be worn throughout the experience.
- All participants must be 13 years of age or older.
- There is no touching or petting of animals during the encounter.
- Photography allowed with personal devices and equipment.
PROGRAM DURATION
ZooBuilder experiences are 60 minutes in length.
NUMBER OF GUESTS
This experience is available for one private group of up to four (4) people.
ALLERGIES
If you have any allergies that we should be aware of, please list them in advance so we can better accommodate you during your visit. Our goal is to make your experience as safe and enjoyable as possible.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Please let us know if you have any special requests while you are enjoying your encounter. Special requests include things like planning a proposal, birthday surprises, etc. Please note that while we cannot grant every request made, we do our best to make your dream a reality.
TAX RECIEPTS
For a 1–2 person encounter, you will receive a $150.00 tax receipt for your $250.00 donation.
For a 3–4 person encounter, you will receive a $370.00 tax receipt for your $500.00 donation.
