How to Hand-Feed Zoo Animals

Using Your Hand

• 1

  Extend your hand in front of you with a flat palm facing the sky.

• 2

  Place just enough zoo-approved food in your hand to cover half of your palm.

• 3

  Move your hand slowly toward the animal, keeping your fingers straight and palm flat.

• 4

  Allow the animal to lick the food pieces from your hand while keeping your hand still.

• 5

  Remove your hand from the animal's enclosure after it finishes the food.

• 6

  Wash your hands with sanitizing gel or warm soapy water.

Using a Pan

• 7

  Place zoo-approved feed in a shallow pie-type pan with the guidance of a zoo employee.

• 8

  Hold the pan securely with two hands.

• 9

  Lower the pan into the animal's enclosure and place the pan on the ground to let the animal eat.

• 10

  Wash your hands with warm soap and water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizing gel.