Animal Encounters

Ever wonder what animals actually eat – at Roger Williams Park Zoo you can feed some of the animals and find out. Whether you are feeding vegetation to the giraffes, fish to the seals or grains to the goats and sheep – it is nutritious and keeps all the animals at the Zoo healthy. More important the animals love the food, and enjoy seeing you.

Masai Giraffe Feedings

Dates/Times:
May 26 – June 15.......................daily | 11:30 am
June 16 - Sept. 3......daily | 11:30 am & 2:30 pm
Sept. 4 - 30......weekends | 11:30 am & 2:30 pm
Price: $5 per participant; $4 for current RWP Zoo members

Tickets are available for purchase at the site of the giraffe feeding in the Fabric of Africa, and sold on a first-come, first-served basis, no advanced registration needed.
Please note: A limited number of feedings will be available during each session. Groups may split the food and take turns feeding the animals. Children must be age 3 or older to participate, and be accompanied by an adult. There are no feedings on June 30 or August 25.

Harbor Seal Encounters

Enjoy a special behind-the-scenes tour of the harbor seal exhibit, and feed the stars of the show, seals Action and Bubba!

Dates:
March 31 – May 27.................Saturdays & Sundays
May 31 – September 2...Thursday/Saturday/Sunday
September 8 – 30....................Saturdays & Sundays
Please note: There are no feedings on June 30 or August 25.
Time: 2:00 pm
Price: $25 per participant; $20 for current RWP Zoo members. Pre-registration required.

Please note: There are no feedings on June 30 or August 25. Guests must be age 5 or older to participate, and children ages 5-11 must be accompanied by a paying adult. The seal feeding area is not wheelchair accessible.

NEW ARMADILLO ENCOUNTER

Get up-close with the Zoo's adorable nine-banded armadillos! Watch the armadillos walk around as you learn and explore these fascinating creatures. You can even touch their natural armor, and take photos.

Dates: Open daily, Noon - 2:00 pm
Please note: Encounters are weather dependent and times may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I touch the animals?

Giraffe and seals are wild animals and do not like to be touched, therefore we ask you not to touch them. However, the Zoo's new seasonal armadillo encounter allows guests participate in interactive experiences.

How should I behave when in the feeding area?

Maintain calm and gentle behavior when around the animals. Remember, you are new to them and they need to feel safe around you. In addition, follow all instructions by the keeper, who is there to ensure your safety as well as that of the animal. If you are asked to step back or stop what you are doing, please do so immediately. We want to ensure everyone has a wonderful experience!

Is there anything else I should know in advance?

Particularly for the giraffe, strong perfume, loud voices or noisy jewelry may startle the animals and cause them to back away.

When can I register for seal feedings?

Registration for seal feedings opens one month in advance. (I.e. May 1 feedings will be open for registrations beginning April 1)

Can I get a refund or transfer my advance registration if my plans change?

Sorry, all sales are final unless the feeding is canceled by the Zoo. For harbor seal feedings: all requests to change the date of your program must be made at least 48 hours prior to the start of your scheduled program. Requests are not guaranteed and are dependent upon availability. There is a $5 transfer fee per participant for any changes to existing registrations.

Can I take pictures during the feeding?

Yes, guests may take pictures during the giraffe feedings, and opportunities for photos will be given during the seal feedings as well.

What if it rains?

Giraffe feedings are weather-dependent. Please call visitor services at 401-785-3510 ext. 316 to check if the feedings have been canceled before your visit.

Seal feedings will take place rain or shine. In cases of severe weather, the feedings may be cancelled. Refunds will be issued if the feeding is cancelled by the Zoo.

Are the feedings stroller and wheelchair accessible?

The giraffe feeding area is fully accessible. The seal feeding area is not wheelchair accessible. Strollers are not permitted in any feeding areas, but parking is available nearby.

How will the zoo use the revenue generated from the feedings?

Revenue generated from these experiences help support the care of our animals as well as our education and conservation programs.

Can I bring my own food to feed the animals?

No, all animals at the Zoo are on a strict diet for their health and safety. What they eat and the amount eaten daily is monitored carefully by our veterinary staff.

What if the animals do not come over to the feeding deck?

Giraffes and seals are wild animals. We cannot guarantee that they will want to eat according to our schedule. There are no refunds for giraffe feedings, but accommodations can be made at the exhibit by speaking with a Zoo staff member.