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From 2 and a half years old: a unique show
At this age, they really start to enjoy the visit. Are they likely to be afraid? It’s quite rare, but still avoid vivariums, which are too dark. In any case, this outing stimulates the curiosity of the youngest. Which animals are most popular with them? Elephants or lions impress them with their size, birds surprise them with their cries and their colors. Undeniable stars: the monkeys. With their games, their facial expressions and their liveliness, they are sure to trigger children’s laughter.
Plan the visit to better enjoy it
Instead, come in the morning: the animals are more active. You are less likely to wait desperately for the lion to wake up. In addition, many zoos provide entertainment: in some, we can attend feeding, in others are organized shows of sea lions, parrots? Remember to find out about the timetables in advance.
Fun and educational
” What are they eating ? “,” How long do the little ones stay with their mom? “? In front of this universe which intrigues them, the children wonder a lot. But a guided tour is not essential. On the signs and maps, you will certainly find a lot of information to answer him. Do not hesitate to question those in charge of the activities. Good to know: some sites offer workshops, from 4-5 years old.
Messages to get across
Why are animals locked up, children often ask themselves. It’s up to you to explain to them that we do not approach a wild animal. It is important that they learn to beware of it, at a time when they are easily moved in front of a panther or a small bear. Likewise, visitors should not feed animals: this can make them sick or cause conflict, especially in monkeys. You can take the opportunity to tell him that these animals represent their species, sometimes endangered in the wild.
Books to prepare or extend the visit
Picture books to recognize monkeys, from marmosets to gorillas or to learn that the leopard climbs trees. For the youngest, La savane (Fleurus, 5,50 euros) presents the most famous animals. More realistic, Animal imagery (Fleurus, 11,50 euros). For the curious, do not forget the collection “My first discoveries” at Gallimard Jeunesse, with quality illustrations. Are available: The Hippopotamus, The Crocodile or The Giraffe. Any stories? Children can discover the zoo through the adventures of their favorite heroes: the famous album Martine au zoo has also been reissued in small cardboard format (Casterman, 3 euros). If your child is an animal lover, there are plenty of tales that take place in the savannah or the jungle. Among the recent publications, Le petit hippopo tamtam (Albin Michel, 13,90 euros). And also games: Tam Tam in the jungle (Albin Michel, 14,90 euros) to learn to count with animals. Or sticker booklets, such as Wild animals at Fleurus.
Find the addresses of animal parks on our leisure map of France.
For more information on the educational activities of the Palmyre zoo and the Beauval zoo: www.zoo-palmyre.fr and www.zoobeauval.com.