Cosley Zoo to host Busy Bunny Egg Hunt

Most days at Cosley Zoo, guests can see Dutch rabbits, French lops and Himalayan rabbits. This spring at the zoo's Busy Bunny Egg Hunt, they'll meet one more rabbit variety: the Easter Bunny.

The Busy Bunny Egg Hunt, a family friendly, after-hours event, is 5 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton.

The hunt is split into four age-appropriate time slots "to ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone," education supervisor Natasha Fischer said. "We divide the children into groups by age to put everyone on an even playing field when scrambling for eggs."

But the egg hunt isn't the only happening of the day.

"While the egg hunt is the focus of the event for many families, there are several activities available, including crafts, games, animal visits and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny in person," Fischer said.

"Participants also receive after-hours access to the zoo and can enjoy touring the facility," seeing more than 60 species of native wildlife and domestic farm animals.

Like visiting with Santa, meeting the Easter Bunny is a special moment for many children.

"I think it's fun for kids to see a … character come to life," Fischer said. "Our event is special because we have so many different activities going on. Many egg hunts only last a few minutes, but the Busy Bunny Egg Hunt has plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy."

And along with the youngest age group comes parental paparazzi, educator Shelley Jenks said.

"It's funny to see almost as many adults with cameras as there are children in the youngest egg hunt each year," she said.

Registration is $13.50 per child ages 2 to 10, $5 per person ages 11 through adult, and free for children younger than 2. All participants, including adults, must register. Adults must accompany their children, who will be placed in an age-appropriate time slot for the egg hunt.

Registration is open through Wednesday, April 5, or until filled. To learn more, visit cosleyzoo.org/events.