What: The animals at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden will receive a whole lot of love this Saturday. Come and watch as the lion cubs, gorillas, king cobras and more interact with extra-special Valentine enrichment items.

These special Valentine’s Day-themed treats, created by the volunteer enrichment committee, contain species-specific snacks. The gorillas will embrace goodies filled with things like oatmeal, cheerios and popcorn, and Riverbanks’ four female elephants will each pore over love letters fit only for an 8,000 lb. queen.

Enrichment is part of the everyday routine at Riverbanks. Animals are enriched on exhibit in natural ways that are not always visible to the public. The keepers use scents and spices to entice the large cats, re-arrange exhibits to engage the reptiles and hide food for some animals so they have to forage for it.

The public enrichment encounters allow Riverbanks to educate guests about the importance of animal enrichment. They also provide great opportunities to watch animals interact with their environment…something you might not see on a typical visit to the Zoo.

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in Valentine’s Day crafts, play a game of zoo bingo or get a temporary tattoo to show their love for animal enrichment. These stations will be set up at the Aquarium Reptile Complex.

When: Saturday, February 14, 2009

10:30am – 2:30pm

Who: 10:30 am Lion cubs

11:30 am Gorilla

1:00 pm King Cobra and Monitor

2:00 pm Elephant

2:30 pm Grizzly

Where: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

500 Wildlife Parkway

Columbia, SC 29201

Tickets: Events are free with paid admission to Riverbanks.