News and Stories

Have you ever wandered through the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and spotted someone in uniform holding an elephant poop ball or a giant ostrich egg? Chances are, you’ve encountered one of the Zoo’s Habitat Ambassador Volunteers—an enthusiastic group of nature lovers who dedicate their time to making your Zoo visit unforgettable.

While their love for the Zoo unites them, the true mission of Habitat Ambassadors extends far beyond its gates. Using creative, hands-on approaches, they spark curiosity and create unforgettable moments for visitors. Through engaging conversations and interactive experiences, these volunteers bridge the gap between people and the natural world, fostering empathy for wildlife and inspiring actions that support conservation.

In addition to scheduled shifts, our Habitat Ambassadors have the opportunity to participate in several exciting events throughout the season. This year alone, they celebrated World Gorilla Day featuring different enrichment devices and educated visitors on the importance of native insects during the Zoo’s Insect Fest. These unique experiences give volunteers the chance to expand their skills, connect with diverse groups, and continue inspiring people to protect wildlife and wild places.

The impact doesn’t end with the visitors. Volunteering as a Habitat Ambassador is as rewarding for the volunteers themselves as it is for those they inspire. They form strong friendships with other volunteers, stay active while exploring the Zoo, and find fulfillment in knowing their efforts make a difference. Many of our Ambassadors also carry the Zoo’s mission with them into their everyday lives, embodying the conservation values they share with others.

In every interaction, our Habitat Ambassadors help shape how visitors view their role in nature. Their dedication supports the Zoo and helps create a healthier planet for future generations. So, the next time you visit the Cincinnati Zoo, don’t hesitate to stop and chat with a Habitat Ambassador—they’re making a world of difference, one conversation at a time.

Do you love the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and wildlife? If you’re passionate about nature and enjoy connecting with people, you might be the perfect fit to become a Habitat Ambassador volunteer! No specific background knowledge is required—just a genuine interest in wildlife, a love of engaging with diverse groups of people, and a desire to continue learning.

Recruitment begins on November 1st, and we welcome people with all kinds of interests and experiences. Our Habitat Ambassadors bring a wide range of skills—some have an appreciation for a specific species, others thrive on meeting new people, while some simply feel inspired by wildlife and wild places. Whatever your passion, it can become the foundation of your role as a Habitat Ambassador. Click here to learn more about becoming a Habitat Ambassador and how you can help make a lasting impact.

Connect with Nature, Connect with People!

Join our incredible team of Habitat Ambassadors at the Cincinnati Zoo! From sparking curiosity with zoo visitors to sharing the wonders of nature, YOU can help make a difference—one conversation at a time.