Critter Squad Wildlife Defenders connects people with animals through memorable experiences and engaging education. Based in Los Angeles, we serve families, schools, and communities throughout Southern California, bringing curiosity and discovery to birthday parties, classrooms, special events, and visits to our zoo.
We believe an animal encounter can be more than a fun moment. It can inspire questions, build confidence around unfamiliar creatures, and encourage a lasting appreciation for wildlife.
OUR STORY AND MISSION
Founded by Geoffrey Mantonya in 2012, Critter Squad has been connecting people with animals through education and memorable experiences for more than a decade. In 2017, we adopted the Critter Squad Wildlife Defenders name, expanding our focus on conservation education and online learning.
Our guiding belief is simple: conservation starts with education. By helping children and adults understand animals, their needs, and their place in nature, we hope to inspire more thoughtful choices about the world we share. Caring for our animals is central to that work, from their daily needs to the respect we encourage during every encounter.
DISCOVER, EXPERIENCE, AND LEARN
Our programs include animal birthday parties, reptile presentations, petting zoos, school and daycare visits, after-school classes, zoo experiences, and interactive touch tables. Each offers a different way to explore wildlife through observation, questions, and guided discovery.
Learning continues in our free Kids’ Zone, an interactive library of animal fact sheets, quizzes, coloring activities, and videos. Families and educators can explore favorite species, discover new ones, and keep the conversation going long after a visit or event.
Explore our programs, register for a class, or visit the Kids’ Zone. We look forward to helping you discover something remarkable about wildlife.