Fresh purpose: Towels transformed into enrichment for wildlife at the Minnesota Zoo

Earlier this year, we partnered with the Minnesota Zoo for a unique and impactful

initiative during our Tropics Days event—collecting gently used towels from visitors in exchange for a brand-new Sun Country Airlines branded beach towel.

The donations are now playing a vital role in enhancing the lives of animals at the Zoo and supporting the work of the dedicated animal care team. We couldn’t resist checking back in to see just how those towels are being put to good use. 

The Minnesota Zoo’s animal care staff work to provide enriching environments that promote natural behaviors and animal well-being. These donated materials serve a variety of behind-the-scenes purposes, from creating cozy dens to offering stimulating nesting materials. 

"We appreciate all the blanket, towels, robes, and beach towels that were donated from Sun Country Tropical Days because we can give our animals these fun activities behind the scenes to stimulate nesting materials, dens, and comfortable spots," said Bree Barney, curator of the Tropics Trail. "We [work to] allow as natural [a habitat] as possible, which they would be found in trees and logs, etc." 

Marty McFly, a pine marten who lives on the MN Trail, has a wide array of hammock, cots, and blankets made of pre-loved towels that he utilizes daily. Marty was raised by a human, so he is used to the comfort of snuggling in blankets.  

Beyond enrichment, the towels are crucial for medical procedures, routine health exams, and transportation—ensuring the team always has clean supplies on hand. 

"We appreciate all these things to make our jobs easier and better," Barney added. 

The Minnesota Zoo continues to provide top-tier care and comfort to its animal residents in a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. 

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to community involvement and exploration of the natural world through travel and conservation. 

Check out more articles highlighting our community efforts below.  

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