Become an Educational Docent!
Do you dream of making a real difference for wildlife while sharing your enthusiasm for animals with others? As a Zoo docent, you’ll inspire and educate guests through engaging wildlife talks, interactive biofacts, and promoting conservation actions. Join a spirited and supportive volunteer community that is passionate about wildlife conservation. Forge new friendships and deepen your understanding of animals with guidance from our knowledgeable Zoo staff.
Docents complete an immersive 11-week training course that includes conservation messaging, Zoo history, animal wellness, ecology, biological adaptations, and honing your communication skills. Our docents volunteer 10 hours per month with the convenience of self-scheduling. Docents must be at least 18 years old. Step up and make a positive impact as a docent!
Why Become a Docent?
You can be a part of a vibrant community of volunteers who care about conserving wildlife. You’ll meet new friends and learn about animals from the Zoo staff.
Meet guests from every walk of life and from around the world and be an ambassador for wildlife and for San Francisco. Becoming a Docent is a great way to share your knowledge of and passion for wildlife and conservation. As a Docent, your enthusiasm and knowledge will help connect people with our animals, inspire conservation efforts, and enrich the experiences of all our guests.
How to Become a Docent
- To be a docent, you must be at least 18 years of age.
- Attend a Docent Orientation to understand the Docent and the Biofact Interpreter (“Intro to Docenting”) programs and Docent responsibilities better.
- You must complete our annual training program. This 10-week comprehensive course covers conservation messages, Zoo history and operation, animal wellness, ecology, biological adaptations, and communication skills.
- Docents volunteer 10 hours per month and self-schedule their hours
Docent Program Dates 2025
Learn more about becoming a Zoo Docent. Enjoy presentations, a Zoo tour, a hands-on biofact cart demonstration, plus light refreshments. The Informational Events are in the Lurie Education Building. Zoo parking passes will be provided. Last Docent Informational Event before docent training begins on February 2, 2025!
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Docent 2025 Training Class
- February 2 – April 13, 2025 – 11 weeks – Sundays (Not Easter Sunday)
For additional information, please email: [email protected]
Ready to join?
Fill out the form below to be part of our amazing group of volunteers!