Six Flags Great Adventure to Feature new "Wild Encounters" Educational Program

© Six Flags Great Adventure

Six Flags Great Adventure is proud to announce a new educational animal outreach program, named Wild Encounters, that is aimed at bringing the thrill of the park's safari into "classrooms, senior centers, after school programs, clubs and more."  Wild Encounters will offer three different program options that are designed to "teach about animals’ characteristics, habitats, history and diets while showcasing live exotic animals and their expert caretakers."  The programs will bring a bit of the safari experience that Six Flags Great Adventure offers to a new audience in a totally new setting.

© Six Flags Great Adventure

During the programs the on-site animal educations will present many different species, including reptiles, snakes, mammals and exotic birds.  Those in attendance will be able to "catch an up-close glimpse of animals such as a two-toed sloth, Moluccan cockatoo and blue-tongued skink, and even touch animals like the black and white tegu and red-tailed boa constrictor."

Wild Encounters will feature lesson plans that have been developed by Six Flags' state-certified teacher and correspond with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

© Six Flags Great Adventure

“Wild Encounters allows us to bring the fun, excitement and educational aspects of the safari to animal lovers, wherever they are,” said Dr. Bill Rives, director and chief veterinarian of Six Flags Great Adventure’s safari and animal education programs.

The programs that have been designed include:

•  Fur, Feathers and Scales – Focuses on the differences among reptiles, mammals and birds. Perfect for grades K through 5.
•  Behind the Biology – Focuses on the importance of animal training through positive reinforcement and its role in animal care. Perfect for grades 6 through 8.
•  Customized – Six Flags will design a program to fit specific needs or criteria.

These programs will last around 45 minutes each and work with groups up to 100 people - they also are a great way to experience a bit of the theme park in the off season, before the park opens on March 24th.  For more information on the new Wild Encounters program, check out the park's website.