“The Bramble Park Zoo has been a major attraction in Watertown since 1912, and moved into our current location in 1940,” said Olivia Wulff, zookeeper and registrar.
Resting upon 15 acres, the expansive zoo offers a “come closer” experience to a wide variety of species of exotic animals, from kangaroos and otters, to lemurs and a tiger, and many critters in between.
“The Bramble Park Zoo is passionate about educating the public on the importance of natural and exotic wildlife that call the zoo home, and their wild counterparts,” explained Wulff.
Wulff carries a multitude of roles under her belt.
Her position as a zookeeper involves providing primary care to kangaroos, wolves, and coyotes, while her duties as registrar involve recording notes, observations, and medical records.
Wulff works alongside Bramble Park’s consulting veterinarian, Dr. Andrea Hennen, to aid in caring for sick or injured animals.
“I love the variety and complexity of my job,” expressed Wulff. “I’m truly living the dream every day that I get to care for these amazing creatures.”
Get to know Wulff and where she spends her time outside of the zoo fences.
After Hours
The zoo is my favorite place to be in Watertown. You’ll often find me here on my days off or after work walking around and taking pictures of the animals with my family. I love seeing the animals from the guests’ perspective.
Walks Along The Shore
Stokes-Thomas City Park & Campground is a great place to walk along Lake Kampeska. I enjoy taking my family and our dogs to walk along the beach or stay for an event, like live music or Cookin’ on Kampeska.
Did You Know?
The Bramble Park Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Summer Nights
I love visiting the Foundation Plaza downtown, especially for Thursday Night Live—a live music event hosted every Thursday evening throughout the summer. Bring your chair and some cash for the local vendors serving food and drinks. You’ll often find me sitting with my family enjoying a cold beer from Watertown Brewing Company and a delicious hotdog from Dempsey’s Proper Hot Dog Co.
Family Outings
I enjoy taking my family on walks at Pelican State Park, which is located just outside of Watertown. The paved roads and grassy paths make hiking easy with a stroller or off-roading with dogs. The pollinator gardens are a great place to see natural wildlife. Finally, there are various amenities like a playground, picnic shelters, and restrooms that make the park comfortable and easily accessible.
FIVE EXOTIC FACTS ABOUT WULFF:
One
My daughter is the light of my life. I’m proud to call her my “mini-me.” She’s very fond of the zoo’s striped skunk, which has been a great addition to our ambassador animal collection.
Two
I own two cats and two dogs, which has been the least amount of pets I’ve had in my adult life. I’ve always been surrounded by animals, ever since I was a little kid.
Three
Ironically, my husband is an avid hunter, and I enjoy hunting as well. We both hold a deep respect for animals, and we primarily eat venison in our household.
Four
My 2024 resolution is to partake in things that bring me joy.
Five
My favorite holiday is Christmas, but it’s closely followed by Halloween. I always dress up for Halloween no matter the theme or occasion.
“The city of Watertown has exceeded my expectations, and I enjoy living in such an upbeat and ever- changing community.”
-OLIVIA WULFF
Tourist Destination
The Redlin Art Center is a popular destination right off of the interstate featuring artwork from Terry Redlin. There are trails located outside of the center that are great for dog walks.
Splish Splash
My daughter, Lyla, loves the water, so we frequent the Watertown Family Aquatic Center. I’m fond of the zero-depth pool where it’s safe for toddlers to splash around in
Early Riser
Before I had my daughter, I loved attending early morning workout classes at Prairie Lakes Wellness Center. They offer a wide variety of fun, upbeat classes like Body Pump, Barre, Turbo Kick, and more.
A Local Staple
Dempsey’s Brewery Restaurant & Pub is my favorite local restaurant in town. They have amazing pizza, and my favorite is the CSBA with chicken, spinach, bacon, and alfredo sauce.
What’s The Buzz?
The Bramble Park Zoo partnered with Watertown Brewing Company to raise funds for a new gray wolf habitat. We created a Kölsch-style brew, Bramble Buzz, made with honey from the zoo’s beehive. With every pint of Bramble Buzz sold, a dollar is donated towards the upcoming habitat.
Role Model
The Bramble Park Zoo partnered with Watertown Brewing Company to raise funds for a new gray wolf habitat. We created a Kölsch-style brew, Bramble Buzz, made with honey from the zoo’s beehive. With every pint of Bramble Buzz sold, a dollar is donated towards the upcoming habitat.
