Give Something "Zoonique" This Holiday Season

When the shopping mall becomes a zoo this holiday season, shoppers can make the Zoo their mall – with just a click or a call. The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) offers many gift ideas that allow the giver to give twice – recipients will love their “zoonique” gifts and the proceeds from sales will help support the animals at the Detroit Zoo. 

Membership has its privileges. A Detroit Zoo membership provides a year’s supply of “Vitamin Z” with free admission to the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Zoo, free daytime parking, discounts at Zoo gift shops and many other benefits. Prices range from $53 to $160. Residents of Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties receive $10 off all categories and can purchase up to four gift memberships at the discounted rate. 

Opt to adopt. An A.D.O.P.T.S. (Animals Depend on People to Survive) gift package includes a plush animal, photo, personalized adoption certificate and greeting card. Prices range from $40 to $1,000. Or, visit Zoofari Market on your next trip to the Zoo, purchase any plush, make a donation of $15 and receive a certificate of adoption. The gift of A.D.O.P.T.S. helps to improve the Zoo animals’ habitats and provides veterinary treatment. 

Pay tribute. Make a lasting impression at the Zoo with a brick tribute paver engraved with a loved one’s name or special message (cost is $100 to $1,000). A brass-finished laser-etched butterfly – displayed in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery – can be purchased to commemorate a birthday, wedding, anniversary or the life of a family member, friend or cherished pet (cost is $500). Or, make a donation of any amount in someone’s honor or memory. 

Close encounters. Zoo Experiences such as Breakfast with the Butterflies ($300 per group of five), Breakfast with the Giraffes ($500 per group of six) and Mingle with the Macaronis ($600 per group of five) allow visitors to get up close and personal with these Zoo residents. A Guided ZooTour ($250 for two people; $100 for each additional person) offers the opportunity to tour the Detroit Zoo with a knowledgeable docent on a zero-emission golf cart and visit the animals before the Zoo opens. 

Preserve the rainforest one child at a time. A contribution to the Adopt-A-School program in lieu of exchanging gifts supports the mission of the DZS and provides school supplies to the rural schools and children in the Amazon. Sponsor a child for $50 for a year's supply of school materials or adopt an entire Peruvian school for $425. 

Can’t decide? Gift certificates are also available. To purchase a gift certificate, order holiday gifts or donate to the Adopt-A-School program, call (248) 336-5836. To give a gift membership, call (248) 541-5717 and press 3.