Valentine’s Day is creeping up once again! Celebrated every year on February 14, it’s often hailed as one of the most romantic days of the year– but let’s be real, only if you’re in a relationship. For the recently heartbroken, those fresh out of a messy breakup, or anyone who just isn’t in the mood for love, it can feel more like a nightmare than a celebration.
Everywhere you look, it’s couples holding hands, romantic candlelit dinners, champagne toasts, and dreamy picnics in the park. Even your favorite café isn’t safe– it’s packed with lovebirds sharing desserts and staring into each other’s eyes like they’re in a rom-com. So, the real question is: where do you go to escape all the lovebirds?
Well, here’s an unexpected answer: the zoo.
Wait, a zoo? Yes! This is not just for the cute animals, but because this year, zoos are giving singles a chance to get a little sweet revenge.
After a breakup, everyone has their own way of coping. Some hit the gym, journaling their way to self-discovery. Others channel their frustration into boxing, maybe even learning how to shoot (hey, better to shoot targets than your ex, right?). Then there are the classic heartbreak remedies– crying into a tub of ice cream, binge-watching rom-coms, or swearing off love altogether.
But what if we told you that this Valentine’s Day, you could do something completely out of the ordinary? Something hilarious, therapeutic, and oddly satisfying? Delve in and read on, because these zoos have something special in store.
A unique way to bid farewell to an ex: Name a roach
Media reports suggest that since 2011, the Bronx Zoo has been offering a humorous way for people to move on from their exes with their “Name-a-Roach” program. For $15, you can name a Madagascar hissing cockroach after your ex and receive a certificate.
The Madagascar hissing cockroach is a large and somewhat intimidating insect, measuring up to four inches long, making it the perfect tribute to someone who wasn’t exactly a “butterfly” in your life.
As per media reports, the $15 donation supports the Wildlife Conservation Society’s efforts to protect endangered species globally. For an extra $20, you can enjoy a virtual meet-and-greet with your cockroach, along with a surprise guest animal. It’s a fun way to mark the end of a relationship while also supporting wildlife conservation.
The San Antonio Zoo: Squash your past
According to media reports, the San Antonio Zoo has added its own twist to the tradition of moving on from exes with its “Squash Your Past” event. For donations ranging from $5 to $25, you can name a cockroach, rat, or even a vegetable after your ex– or anyone else who wasn’t so special.
The fun part of this event is that you get to watch as the zoo’s animals feast on your named tribute. Whether it’s a cockroach served as a snack or a frozen rat given to a predator, watching your ex’s name be consumed by a hungry animal might provide some much-needed humor and relief.
This event offers both a cathartic experience and supports the zoo’s wildlife programs, which focus on securing a better future for wildlife. It’s a unique way to channel any breakup energy into something positive.
Columbus Zoo: Watch sloth bears devour your ex’s worm
If you’re looking for something truly unique this Valentine’s Day, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio offers a fun option. As per media reports, for $15, you can name a superworm after your ex and watch as the zoo’s sloth bears, Randhir and Heiderose, devour it in a playful and satisfying way.
As a bonus, you’ll receive a personalized video of the sloth bears enjoying their snack, making it a memorable gift. As per sources, the zoo also highlights that the donation supports its animal care and conservation programs. It’s a lighthearted way to cope with heartbreak while contributing to a good cause.
A growing trend among zoos
These events have gained popularity over the years, with more zoos joining the trend. For instance, the Bronx Zoo reported over 3,200 participants in their “Name-a-Roach” event last year, with many naming roaches after exes, family members, and even challenging colleagues.
It’s evident that people enjoy finding unique and humorous ways to commemorate past relationships. Beyond providing a good laugh, these zoo programs also help raise money for animal conservation efforts, allowing participants to channel their frustrations into positive contributions to wildlife.
And so, while these Valentine’s Day events may seem outlandish at first, they’re popular for several reasons. First, they provide a fun and cathartic way for people to move on from their past.
Second, they offer a unique opportunity to support animals and conservation efforts. Unlike typical Valentine’s Day gifts, these donations contribute to preserving endangered species and supporting animal welfare, adding a meaningful purpose to the fun experience.
