Summer is finally here and it’s time to start planning ways to get out and enjoy the day. Whether you’re looking for something fun and educational for the whole family, a solo excursion, or looking for ways to help exotic pets in your area, there’s something for you here in Oakland. We’ve rounded up some of the events and activities in the Oakland area that we think you’ll love. Get out your calendar, and start planning your summer!
oakland exotic pet and wildlife events and activities
Vallejo Reptile and Oddities Expo - July 15th-16th in Vallejo
This is more than just a reptile expo. In addition to reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids, you can also explore handmade oddities, carnivorous plants, and more! Part reptile show and part craft fair, you can stock up on the supplies you need for your vivarium, and also snag a derpy reptile plush or horror themed soap. Ticket proceeds go to benefit JNW Reptile Rescue, a non-profit that rehomes, rehabilitates, and provides education about reptiles.
Bay Area Pignic - Saturday, August 26th in Marin; Saturday, September 9th in Cupertino
Come out and meet other guinea pig enthusiasts and help raise awareness and funds for guinea pig rescues at The 2023 Bay Area Pignic. Join the fun in Marin on August 26th…. or in Cupertino on September 9th. Bring your guinea pig for a health check and nail trim or just to enjoy some time outdoors. There will be adoptable piggies as well as fun events. Past picnics have featured silent auctions, costume contests, veggie eating contests, and raffles. This all ages event is perfect for guinea pig enthusiasts, families considering adopting a guinea pig (or even two… they do best in groups), or anyone who loves animals and wants to help promote adoption.
Pigeon Appreciation Day Demonstration for Pigeon Protections - Tuesday, June 13th
If you have a passion for pigeons, then show your support by advocating for state and federal protections. Organized by Cynthia Harris of Palomacy Pigeon and Dove Rescue, this event is meant to bring awareness to the lack of protections for pigeons and doves and the resulting abuse and mistreatment that has arisen because of this.
The booth where protesters will be demonstrating has a permit, and you are welcome to bring your own properly restrained pigeons to the event. This event is meant to educate and enlighten lawmakers about the importance of protections for pigeons, especially in light of the important roles they have played in our history.
Rabbit Essentials Pantry - Multiple Saturdays at 12pm
This event helps to give items back to local rabbit owners. Available items may include food pellets, hay, litter pellets, litter boxes, and toys. Even if you are not in need, this is a great event to attend to get involved and meet fellow rabbit owners in the area.
Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp - June 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 10-14, 17-21, 24-28, 31; August 1-4
If you have a child in kindergarten through 8th grade who can’t get enough of the zoo, then a summer zoo camp session might be just what they need. Sessions are a week long, and kids get a chance to see how the zoo works behind the scenes. The focus of the camp and activities varies by age group. These camps are popular, so if you can’t get in right away, make sure to get your child’s name on the waiting list just in case a spot opens up.
Meet The Animal Keepers: Live Animal Presentation - Multiple Saturdays at 11:30am
If you’re interested in learning more about California’s native fauna, head over to the Randall Museum’s new exhibit. Wild In California features live animals, and on multiple Saturdays this summer, you can get up close and personal with them. You can meet the animal keepers and learn about what it takes to care for the museum’s new residents. Participate in the open discussion, and enjoy meeting the resident barn owl… and a reptile or two. This event is fun for wildlife lovers of all ages, so don’t be afraid to bring the kids and encourage them to ask questions.
Birding the Hill - Multiple Fridays at 8:00am
Grab your binoculars and meet the Randall Museum’s birding guide for a bird watching walk on Corona Hill. It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice birder, but you do need to be ready to tackle uneven, rocky terrain and handle a fairly strenuous hike. This free event is sponsored by the Golden Gate Audubon Society.
where to look for events
Some organizations wait until the month of an event to start listing and promoting it. Others have so much happening, we couldn’t possibly list it all! Here are some places to check for events so you can stay in the loop throughout the summer… and the entire year!
East Bay Regional Parks District - There’s always something happening at one of the East Bay Parks. Snake talks, fish feeding, nature walks, naturalist programs… there’s something for all age groups and every level of outdoor ability. Many of their programs are drop in, so check their calendar frequently to find out what’s going on in the parks district. They run events all year, so make sure to check out the bat hikes in the fall! They’re a local favorite!
Golden Gate Audubon Society Field Trips - Audubon field trip locations and dates are released the third Tuesday of the preceding month. These excursions are usually free except for park fees. Audubon Society field trips are open to all birders, but pay attention to the description of the terrain to make sure the field trip location isn’t outside your physical capabilities.
Hoolibuns - Known to host live webinars on all things bunny, Hoolibuns is a local business providing bunny boarding and bonding services.
Ratical Rodent Pop-Up Events - If you’re a rodent fan, and you want to help raise funds for rodent rescue, or if you want to add to the family, follow Ratical Rodent. They run pop-up adoption and fundraising events to provide second chances to rats, guinea pigs, and hamsters.
Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge - Learn more about the water fowl, fish, and other animals that call the Bay Area home. Check the schedule for walking tours and other special events. With 30,000 acres, and 38 miles of trails, you can enjoy hikes, bird watching, and other educational experiences.
Have an exotic or wildlife event you're looking forward to attending this summer? Let us know in the comments!