A Day of Joy: The Petting Zoo Experience in North Orange
In an age where digital entertainment often overshadows nature, the recent petting zoo event at Moore-Leland Library in North Orange offered a refreshing reminder of the joy that wildlife can bring to families. Over a hundred visitors, consisting of both young and old, flocked to see and interact with various animals, an experience that is rare in today's world.
April Violette, the children's librarian, played a pivotal role in this event. By reaching out to the Dudley-based Records and Burpee company, she orchestrated a delightful interaction between families and animals during the April school break. Violette expressed her hopes that the event would excite the children present.
Linda Cole, a local resident, brought her granddaughter Eva to the event, and their delightful interactions with the animals captured the essence of the day's purpose. Eva's favorites included a 1.5-week-old goat and stunning macaw parrots. "She[Eva] loves the animals," Linda remarked, mirroring the delighted smiles witnessed throughout the event, showcasing the intergenerational enjoyment of animal encounters.
This petting zoo showcased a variety of animals, including a large tortoise and adult goats, providing a unique opportunity for children to learn about and connect with these fascinating creatures. Violette mentioned that the Friends of Orange Public Libraries funded the $600 necessary to host the event, a small investment for the immense joy it brought to the community.
Alexandra “Lee” Burpee, co-owner of the Records and Burpee company, shared her passion for bringing animals to communities. "There’s so few places where people come into contact with animals. That’s what I really like about it,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of such interactions in a world that's increasingly disconnected from the natural environment.
This event highlighted the importance of connecting families with nature, fostering a sense of wonder and empathy within the younger generations. With future events planned, it raises an intriguing question: How can communities further promote awareness and interaction with wildlife? We invite your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Did you attend this event or a similar one? What animal encounters have left a lasting impression on you?
