Discover how Wonders of Wildlife’s Animal Ambassador program gives rescued animals a second chance while providing hands-on educational experiences for schools, events and members.
Sep 2025
At Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri, animals are teachers too. Through the Animal Ambassador program, Wonders of Wildlife connects people of all ages with fascinating creatures while highlighting the importance of conservation and care.
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Animal Ambassadors are a select group of animals that live on-site at Wonders of Wildlife, as well as larger animals that are housed off-site due to their space and daily care needs. This diverse group includes tenrecs, snakes, lizards, amphibians, hawks, a porcupine from Africa and more! Each one helps share the story of their species and the role they play in the ecosystem.
Many of the ambassador animals come from rehabilitation situations. Some, like the birds of prey, have sustained injuries that make survival in the wild impossible. By partnering with state and federal agencies to house animals deemed non-releasable, they are given a permanent home at Wonders of Wildlife and a new purpose as educators. For example, one hawk in the program was found to have bullet fragments in its wing from being shot in the wild. Unable to fly well enough to live independently, he now thrives as an ambassador, helping people better understand and appreciate raptors.
Keepers build daily relationships with the animals, ensuring they are healthy, comfortable and willing to participate. These animals are never forced into programs. “Sometimes, just like us, they have off days, and an animal decides that day they don't want to do anything,” Assistant Curator Stephanie Peters says. “We give the animals that choice and control.” When animals are ready, they are able to join educational programs at schools, libraries and community events, bringing Wonders of Wildlife directly to people who may not be able to visit the aquarium in person.
The Animal Ambassador program helps people connect with wildlife on a deeper level. By learning, for example, that vultures help control pests or that snakes may not be as frightening as they seem, guests gain a new perspective on species that are often misunderstood. These personal encounters inspire conservation-minded choices and a stronger appreciation for the natural world.
• Book an educational event: Bring ambassadors to your classroom or event.
• Plan a field trip: Visit Wonders of Wildlife to meet the animals in person.
• Volunteer: Support the care and mission of the ambassador program.
• Become a member: Membership comes with special perks, including exclusive quarterly member nights where guests can attend for free and meet keepers and Animal Ambassadors up close.
