Animal Discovery Zone Fund

Help reimagine learning encounters with live animals by making a gift to the Animal Discovery Zone Fund.

The Animal Discovery Zone is a planned renovation and reinvigoration of our longstanding and beloved Animal Discovery Room. New naturalistic habitats will help tell the stories of animals and ecosystems. Expanding the physical space will enable personal, inquiry-based learning, while also allowing for more efficient animal husbandry. Thematic content on topics that help visitors understand how animals survive and thrive will be woven through the space, and tie in to other learning environments at The Lawrence, including the Outdoor Nature Lab.

What began four decades ago has been a favorite among visitors of all ages in promoting not only science understanding, but also fostering deep and lasting connections with the natural world and with The Lawrence. Though the frontiers of science change rapidly, a connection to animals is a long-lasting bond that withstands the test of time.

Your support will allow us to:

• Increase the opportunities for visitors to The Lawrence to observe and interact with animals through facilitated and self-guided experiences. 
• Improve the animal habitats and add additional interpretive materials to enhance the visitor and animal experience.
• Act as a learning lab for our staff and learning scientists to research, design, and disseminate dynamic and effective animal-centric educational experiences.
• Create new programs about conservation, environmental literacy, and biodiversity.

The Design Phase is being conducted in partnership with Austin McNaughton of Shah Kawasaki Architects. Design input and conceptual planning for habitats and animal enclosures is being provided by Little Ray’s Exhibitions, a leading designer of interactive and educational live animal exhibits.  Both organizations have worked with us to ensure that animal welfare, visitor interaction, and enhanced visitor experiences are designed into the transformed space.

Show your support

Donors who make contributions to the Animal Discovery Zone Fund at $2500 and above will also have a unique opportunity to be acknowledged on Celebrating Nature’s Diversity, a new photo installation at The Lawrence.

Other naming opportunities are available. Please contact Susan Gregory at sgregory@berkeley.edu to learn more about the project and how your gift can make a difference.