Remembrances for Animal Lovers

Quality Gifts at Zoos

Zoos and aquariums encompass many different animals, many of which inspire high quality gifts at attraction gift shops. Here’s a look at some of the higher-end merchandise that makes animal lovers eager to purchase.

At Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale, Ariz., an indoor, interactive rainforest habitat is home to thousands of butterflies. Gift Shop Manager Sara Aneston described the shop’s top-selling expensive gifts as representing visitor experience at the venue. “We have beautiful acrylic sculptures that hold a preserved, real-life butterfly. They’re sold as décor items and to collectors. Many of our repeat customers collect these works,” Aneston said. Ranging in price from $95 to $119, the 6-inch-by-6-inch acrylic displays are vividly lifelike.

Less expensive but equally high-quality butterfly jewelry also sells well, including an abalone butterfly necklace.

As far as finding additional high-end items for the gift store, visitor interests and requests, as well as visits from merchandise reps often provide suggestions. According to Aneston, “We’ve had our acrylic butterfly pieces since we opened, and they do extremely well for us. They’re on our online retail website as well as in our brick-and-mortar store. Our guests let us know what they like to buy and what they want. We always look for quality items that are related to our butterflies,” Aneston asserted.

Which Zoo or Aquarium Animal Draws the Most Sales?

At zoos and aquarium attractions, the main driver behind which animal representation is the most popular to purchase seems to be the popularity of that animal at the venue itself.

At Butterfly World in Scottsdale, Ariz., Gift Shop Manager Sara Aneston said, “Merchandise directly connected to our own facility sells the best. I would say our most popular items are blue, white, and orange butterfly figures. The colors really attract people to these butterfly favorites.”

In Bandon, Ore., at West Coast Safari Park, Gift Shop Manager Jenny Lucas agreed with Aneston, saying, “The types of animals that are based at our zoo primarily are what sells best. Tigers and bears are the top sellers.” ❖