Do I need prior experience with animals to join the program?

No prior experience is necessary; the program is designed to teach you all the basics and guide you through hands-on care.

Is the program suitable for children?

The program is best suited for teens and adults due to the nature of the tasks and safety requirements.

What should I wear during the program?

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor work.

Are meals or snacks provided?

Participants should bring their own snacks and water; meals are not included in the program.

Can I take photos during the program?

Yes, photography is allowed but please respect the animals and follow instructor guidelines to avoid stress on the animals.

How many participants are there per session?

Sessions are kept small, usually no more than 6 participants, to ensure personalized mentorship.

Zookeeper Mentor Program in Bonsall, California

The Zookeeper Mentor Program offered by Wild Wonders in Bonsall, California is a unique experience designed for animal lovers and aspiring caretakers eager to get hands-on with wildlife care. This private program provides an up-close opportunity to learn directly from professional zookeepers about daily animal care, habitat maintenance, and enrichment activities. Participants gain invaluable insights into the responsibilities and challenges involved in managing exotic and native animals. The program not only focuses on animal health and nutrition but also encourages mentorship, fostering learning in a supportive environment. Ideal for all ages with a passion for animals, this immersive experience takes place on-site in a serene Southern California setting, making it a perfect educational adventure away from the hustle and bustle. Beyond basic interaction, you’ll assist in preparing meals, cleaning enclosures, and understanding behavioral cues, all while developing a deeper respect for animal welfare and conservation. Whether you’re considering a career in zoology or just looking to expand your wildlife knowledge, this mentor program creates unforgettable moments and lasting memories. Wild Wonders ensures personalized attention with small group sizes, tailoring the experience to your interests and questions. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, refine animal handling skills, and contribute toward the wellbeing of diverse animal species in Bonsall’s carefully managed sanctuary.

About Wild Wonders

Wild Wonders is a wildlife conservation and encounter facility in Bonsall, California, operating on a 5-acre property. The facility offers private, keeper-led animal experiences and educational tours designed for families, bird lovers, and animal enthusiasts.

Guided encounters are led by professional biologists and trained keepers who introduce visitors to animal ambassadors including parrots, Bennett’s wallabies, servals, binturongs (bearcats), and small wild cats. Tours range from brief, 60-minute Behind the Scenes Interactive Tours to extended three-hour programs such as the Ultimate - I Want It All! experience.

Specialty encounters include Winged Wonders, a private parrot tour featuring Blue and Gold Macaws and Sun Conures; Wallaby Walkabout, a 90-minute meeting with Bennett’s Wallabies; and Meet and Feed a Bearcat, a 90-minute session focused on binturongs and their conservation. Other curated offerings feature picnic-style Celebration VIP tours, Sunset Safari evenings, Brunch and Walk experiences, and family-focused Zoo Camp programming.

Wild Wonders emphasizes education, animal welfare, and habitat conservation. Programs incorporate live demonstrations, keeper talks, and hands-on opportunities appropriate for guests aged eight and up. The facility highlights animal behavior, diet, and species conservation needs, and provides supervised interactions to ensure safety for both animals and visitors.

Bookings are made per experience and are tailored to small groups, private events, and family outings. Wild Wonders supports conservation education by sharing species information and responsible stewardship practices during every visit. Visitor safety and animal welfare are central to operations, with clear guidelines, trained staff, and supervised interactions designed to minimize stress and maximize learning for guests of all ages.