It’s Been a Zoo Around Here – Literally
by Steve Heriot
Many children and adults, especially those in cities, will never see a wild animal beyond a fox or pigeon, let alone a camel or kangaroo. Wildlife shows on TV are impressive, but there is no substitute for seeing other species up close. Bringing the kids to the zoo is a wholesome, family activity that can bring people and animals together, educate the public, and foster appreciation and empathy for other species. Being around animals and interacting with them on a personal level can even spur an awareness of wildlife management and conservation.
A great zoo experience for kids is available right here in Otter Tail County. It’s called Trowbridge Zoo and it’s located near Vergas, Minnesota. Dusty Ebersviller and his family started the zoo in the spring of 2016. After 16 years of purchasing, trading and raising exotic animals on the farm he grew up on, Dusty decided it was time to share his hobby with the public.
He started with a whitetail deer as a teenager and added several exotic animals each year until a zoo seemed like a good idea. He says that some of the animals need to be licensed with the DNR or registered with the Board of Health. Dusty also holds a USDA Exhibitor’s license. Each animal has its own special diet and needs. Feeding and clean-up chores take quite a bite out of the day so the entire family is involved. There are large pens for some of the animals and also a storage building to keep the animals warm in the winter months.
Species that you might see at the menagerie include ostrich, zebra, wolf, fox, parrot, water buffalo, tortoise, elk, camel, deer, bobcat, peacock, Brahma bull, donkey, eland, goat, opossum, kangaroo, porcupine, prairie dog, alligator, lemur, and more. There is also a petting zoo where kids can get some up-close, hands-on experience. Feed for the animals can be purchased in the gift shop.
Special events that have been held at the zoo include a Fall Fest, Kids at the Zoo, a Sensory-Friendly Zoo Night, Raptors of Minnesota Show, and several special guest educators.
Trowbridge Creek Zoo also enjoys providing the critters (sheep, donkeys, and a camel) for a live Nativity, which is displayed every year during Old Fashioned Christmas in Vergas. The festival begins on November 28 in 2020. Their live nativity has also been displayed at Christmas at the Barn at Dunvilla, which features a Santa’s Village, Pancake Brunch, Sleigh Rides and Vendor Show.
Trowbridge Creek Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week (weather permitting) from Memorial Day through Labor Day. After Labor Day, hours change to 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays only.
Admission is free for ages 2 and under, $8.50 for kids 3-12, $10.75 for adults and $8.50 for seniors. There is also a military discount. Camel rides are $7 per rider.
The zoo’s address is 50622 Co Hwy 17, Vergas, and the phone number is (218) 731-8711. More information and some great pictures and videos can be found on their Facebook page and at their website at TrowbridgeCreekZoo.com.
