ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

When was the last time you went to the zoo? If it’s been a while, here’s a reason you should go: June is National Zoo and Aquarium Month!

Zoos and aquariums serve as a way to educate individuals about animals and marine life.

That’s why, in 1982, President Ronald Reagan decided to dedicate the month of June to zoos and aquariums, demonstrating the facilities’ significance in wildlife conservation.

In honor of National Zoo and Aquarium Month, WFXR News’ Hazelmarie Anderson stopped by the Star City’s very own Mill Mountain Zoo to speak with staff members and meet the animals who help educate the community.

The Mill Mountain Zoo’s Tufted Deer greets zoo guests. (Video: Hazelmarie Anderson/WFXR News)

You can also learn more about the zoo’s animal ambassadors over the next few weeks at various branches of Roanoke Public Libraries:

  • 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 30 at the Melrose library
  • 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 7 at the Gainsboro library
  • 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 13 at the Raleigh Court library
  • 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 19 at the Belmont Library