Hemker Park & Zoo facts for kids

Hemker Park & Zoo

Date opened	1977
Location	Oak Township, Minnesota, United States
Coordinates	45°40′19″N 94°40′3″W / 45.67194°N 94.66750°W / 45.67194; -94.66750
No. of species	51

The Hemker Park & Zoo is a fun, family-owned zoo that opened in 1977 in Freeport, Minnesota, United States. It was started by Mark and Joan Hemker, who loved animals and wanted to share them with everyone. Today, it's a great place to see many different kinds of animals from all over the world!

Discovering Hemker Park & Zoo's History

The Hemker Park and Zoo began in 1977. Mark and Joan Hemker started it as the Hemker Game Farm. They first collected different kinds of waterfowl.

In 1980, the farm welcomed its first white-tail deer and a black bear. The animal family grew even more in 1985. They added a pronghorn antelope and two reindeer.

From Game Farm to Wildlife Park

In 1992, the name changed to Hemker Wildlife Park. That same year, six black-footed penguins joined the collection. Finally, in 1994, the Hemker Wildlife Park opened its doors to the public for the very first time.

As the new century began, the park added exciting new areas. One popular addition was the African Safari exhibit.

Remembering Mark Hemker and New Beginnings

In 2006, Mark Hemker, one of the founders, passed away. His family decided to keep the zoo open to honor his memory. In 2008, the park became the Hemker Park & Zoo. They also added a new picnic area and a farm petting zoo.

The penguins returned in 2010, bringing more joy. In 2012, two special New Guinea singing dogs, named Gus and Lucy, joined the zoo family.

Meet the Amazing Animals at Hemker Park & Zoo

The Hemker Park & Zoo is home to many different types of animals. You can explore various habitats and learn about creatures from around the world.

Mammals You Can See

Mammals are warm-blooded animals, often with fur or hair. They feed their babies milk.

Reptiles and Their Cool Features

Reptiles are cold-blooded animals, often with scales. They lay eggs.

Birds: Feathers and Flight

Birds are animals with feathers, wings, and beaks. Most birds can fly.

Other Interesting Creatures

You might also spot these unique animals at the zoo!

Exciting Experiences at the Zoo

The zoo offers many fun ways to get closer to the animals and learn more. You can take educational tours to discover amazing facts. During winter, you might even enjoy reindeer sleigh rides!

Special Zoo Activities

The zoo is a great place for picnics and birthday parties. You can also go on wagon rides. They even have a mobile petting zoo that can visit other locations!

Become a Zoo Keeper for a Day!

One of the most exciting experiences is the Zoo Keeper Experience Day. You get to spend a whole day with a real zoo keeper! You can help with feeding the animals, join in enrichment programs, and assist with educational activities. You might even help with cleaning the animal habitats.

Future Plans for the Zoo

The zoo is always growing and planning new things. In 2018, they planned to add a rhinoceros to their collection, bringing another amazing large animal for visitors to see.