Our docents are volunteer Zoo educators who are dedicated to teaching schoolchildren and the general public about wildlife, ecosystems and conservation. In sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm about our Zoo animals, they help increase our visitors’ caring attitude toward nature.
Docents are critical to the successful operation of the Zoo’s Education Department and the greater zoological community. These dedicated volunteers are members of the Docent Organization, directed by the Education Department. The organization consists of officers, committees and membership functioning under appropriate by-laws to fulfill the Zoo's mission.
Docents have a variety of opportunities to serve our diverse audiences, both on and off Zoo grounds. They can lead educational tours or conduct formal animal classes. They can use animals and biofacts to teach about wildlife and environmental education. They can even conduct off-site outreach programs on various animal-related themes.
Want to join the team of nearly 200 dedicated men and women docents at the Saint Louis Zoo? Learn how YOU can Become a Docent.