BLOOMINGTON - Not everyone out shopping on Black Friday this year is looking for the latest laptop or biggest bargain.  Some are herding to a local zoo for a more unique gift.

There are a lot of little treasures at the Miller Park Zoo gift shop, but everyone is going wild for just one thing.

Miller Park Zoo's Susan Pelaez says, "It's been crazy.  The phone doesn't stop ringing.  It's like we had our own little Black Friday, where people were camping outside here.  They were since at least 9, and we don't open until 9:30."

All the excitement is over the return of the magical reindeer gem necklaces and ornaments.  They're hand-made from actual reindeer dung after it has been dehydrated and sanitized.

Shopper LouAnn Jacobs says, "I just think it's a hoot."  She bought four ornaments, and has not decided if she's keeping one for herself.

Shopper Chelsea Brooks bought two ornaments.  One of them is going to her unexpecting brother.  "I think he'll laugh.  I think he'll think it's funny.  I think he'll be surprised to say the least."

Most people are surprised by this unique animal art.  So far, orders have come in from across the country and around the world.  Zoo officials filled an order from Australia Friday morning.

Still, Pelaez says, "You just never think you're going to walk into a store and by poo."  But the customers and calls keep coming as Christmas approaches.

Customers say spending their dollars on dung is anything but foul.  "If I'm in a small way contributing back to the zoo, I think it's a big plus," Jacobs says.  All the proceeds from the reindeer gems help fund the zoo's programs and animals year round.  It's especially needed now as the City of Bloomington looks to cut services to save money.

The ornaments cost $7.50 and the necklaces cost $15.00.  Shipping is available.  Click here for more information.