Animal Encounters at Sweetbriar Nature Center

62 Eckernkamp Dr., Smithtown

(631) 979-6344

 

Give someone an up-close and personal encounter with Cali, an imprinted Baltimore oriole, Marguerite, an imprinted blue jay and Nugget, an ambassador Screech owl at Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown. Sweetbriar is situated on 54 acres of varied garden, woodland, field and wetland habitats on the Nissequogue River. It is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, and the center provides wildlife rehabilitation services and natural science education services.

In the one-hour session your recipient will also get a personal tour of the recently renovated Wildlife Rehabilitation area, meet all of the permanent reptile and parrot ambassadors, and learn about the history of the Sweetbriar. Up to five people are welcome to join in the experience. 

Sweetbriar also offers a Barn Owl Encounter, a half-hour session where your gift recipient can meet and learn how to hold Nebula the Barn Owl. They will also have the choice of meeting one other Sweetbriar education animal.

 

Penguin, Seal, Sea Lion, and Other Animal Encounters at The Long Island Aquarium

431 East Main Street, Riverhead

(631) 208-9200

 

The Long Island Aquarium offers animal encounters and connections that will bring your gift recipient behind-the-scenes for an up-close meeting with penguins, sea lions, seals, or porcupines. They will learn how the experts care for aquarium residents. And of course - there will be fun picture opportunities! 

Certain encounters are seasonal, see site for details. 

Long Island Aquarium Gift Cards are also available which are good for admission and the Penguin Encounter. 

Personal Video Shoutout, Wallaby Encounters, and More at The Long Island Game Farm

489 Chapman Boulevard, Manorville

(631) 878-6644

 

The Long Island Game Farm is the largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on Long Island where families can learn about wildlife and animals through education and entertainment. It has lots of ideas for the animal lovers on your holiday gift list.

Send a custom personal video message from your favorite animal. Choose the animal and a fun holiday shoutout will be emailed to your friend or family member.

Surprise someone with tickets to a Winter Wallaby Encounter, a hands-on experience where they can meet, feed, pet, and enjoy the company of two little marsupials. Or give a Family Fun Pack good for 12 general admissions and give a season full of visits. 

Perhaps the ultimate Long Island Game Farm animal lover gift is the V.I.P. Tour which gives the recipient a behind-the-scenes look at the park any time of year. They will get a private tour of the park, learn how to hand feed animals safely, and enjoy several animal encounters.