Preparations are getting underway for the changing of the seasons at Binghamton's Zoo at Ross Park.

Speaking on the September 10 & 17 editions of the weekly local public affairs program, Zoo Public Relations Coordinator Rachel Davenport looks back on a successful summer season for the nation's fifth oldest zoo and talks about big upcoming events like the "wildly" popular Boo at the Zoo and Howlween at the zoo for younger children.

There are also special "Wild Encounters" where guests can actually visit hands-on with some of the animals including the Black Footed Penguins and the Two-Toed Sloth.

The caregivers at the zoo are the ones that need more preparation for the change of the seasons than the animals, according to Davenport, since the animals have climate-controlled enclosures but the keepers have to slog through snow and ice over the zoo's rough terrain over the winter to care for everyone.

You can find out more about schedules, admission and programs by visiting the Ross Park Zoo website or by calling the zoo at (607) 724-5461.

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Saturdays at 12:10 p.m. on News Radio 1290 WNBF.

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