Meet and feed Ruby & Rocco in a memorable encounter

The objective:

The Barking Owl is native to Australia and New Guinea. We want guests to get an appreciation of the many incredible birds that exist and how they can help them.

The experience:

You will enter Ruby and Rocco’s aviary and be enthralled by their grace in flight and their amazing abilities as an apex predator. Have them fly to you and see if they land on your outstretched arm!

The impact:

This is a remarkable experience and many participants walk away with a whole new appreciation of the world of birds!

The reason:

Barking Owls are listed as vulnerable in NSW and are the fastest disappearing owl in Victoria. Encounters such as these raise much needed funds for these species.

The outcome – $1,000,000!!

Through tour and encounter revenue, during the last 3 years the National Zoo and Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge have donated over $1,000,000 in cash and kind to various animal conservation and welfare groups, along with charities, in Australia and worldwide. Your support of the encounters helps us maintain this and you can also donate directly to a number of animal causes by clicking on the link.

Special notes

You will be entering the home of our resident animals, so please understand that they have the right to participate or not participate in any encounter and their wishes will always take priority. The animals are not restrained in any way and are free to leave the encounter if they choose.

You will learn about the animals, their habits, habitats, special abilities and their vulnerability in the wild and how you can help them

Due to other precautions, there are no mask or vaccination requirements for participants on this tour or encounter. However, guides will wear masks when appropriate and guests are welcome to wear one.

Zoo entry not included*