Spring is our favorite time of year to visit the Salisbury Zoo. Not only does the spring weather have us eager to get outside, but it also brings the animals back outside as well! As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, the animals at the Salisbury Zoo take the opportunity to venture out of hibernation, which means we get the chance to observe them, be it the otters diving in for a swim, the bears playing during enrichment time, or the flamingos soaking up some sun. Springtime also means more events at the Salisbury Zoo, particularly during the month of April. Grab your calendars and make your plans to visit the Salisbury Zoo this month:

Earth Day – April 16, 10am-4pm

Of course one of the biggest days of the year for the Salisbury Zoo is Earth Day! The annual Earth Day Celebration is a FREE event and open to all ages, which means it’s fun for the entire family. This year’s celebration is calling particular attention to our local pollinators. The staff will present their new observation beehive, which will be located in the Red Wolf building. What else to expect? Plenty of activities, games, and educational programs including Zookeeper talks and demonstrations, environmental activities, face-painting, and great food. The day will also include several Earth-friendly exhibitors: Blackwater Wildlife Refuge, Ward Museum, Delmarva Discovery Center, and the National Aquarium.

Zoo Stampede – April 16, 9am

Before heading out to the Salisbury Zoo to celebrate Mother Earth, how about joining in the Annual Zoo Stampede 5K Run/Walk?! The rain or shine event will benefit the Salisbury Zoo and will includes giveaways and prizes for the top finishers in every age category. Pre-registration is $20 at either the Salisbury Z00 or at Vernon Powell Shoes in Salisbury. Participants can also register the day of the race between 7:30am and 8:30am at the Zoo’s Main entrance. For more information, call Mary Seemann at 410-880-6880.

Wild About Reading – April 28

This is a great event for your little ones (5th grade and younger) to enjoy while learning about animals and improving literacy. The Salisbury Zoo and the Eastern Shore Reading Council present the rain or shine event, which includes activities for preschool, primary, and intermediary students. Wild About Reading is a FREE event and every child receives a free book. All children must be accompanied by an adult and registration is required.

Beekeeping Class – April 30, 9am-4pm

If you’re interested in learning more about beekeeping, this one is definitely for you. Certified Master Beekeeper Dean Burroughs will be joining the Zoo on April 30 to lead and teach the class, which will be held in the Red Wolf building next to the new demonstration hive. Dean is a third generation beekeeper, a Maryland State Apiary Inspector, and a commercial beekeeper who manages 230 hives! In addition, Dean formerly served as the president of the Maryland State Beekeepers Association, as well as the founder and past president of the Lower Eastern Shore Beekeepers Club. The class cost is $50 and includes a book, “The Complete Step-by-Step Book for Beekeeping.” Class size is limited so reservations are required. Contact Mary Seemann at mseemann@citylivingsalisbury.com for more information and registration.