A Hot (and Cool) Day at the Zoo

It's hot outside. I don't like this. But...I signed up for a shift feeding the giraffes this weekend and I don't know when I'll get another chance anytime soon because they put them in the barn in October.

Anyway...the day started off with a big crowd that wanted to feed. That's always fun, because I get to see more people excited to do something I love to do. After that was done, I had over an hour until the next feeding. So, I grabbed my camera again for another shoot at the zoo. I got some decent photo opportunities, and will post them at a later date. I had much more "up close" opportunities with some of the animals, including the penguins and wallabies. And...as luck would have it, Barnaby the horniest of tortoises, gave another show. I decided to refrain from photographing the intimate moment this time. But it sure draws a crowd.

As I wandered up to the live animal demonstration, I ran into the Zoo Education specialist who asked if I'd want to help her with the demonstration. I readily agreed. What did I hold? A Ball Python. It was awesome. I know several people are now squirming just thinking about it, but it was just the coolest thing ever. It slithered and twisted around my hand and moved its way up my arm.

And the fun times didn't stop there. After we were done, I got to visit behind the scenes at the animal education area. I got to hold or touch more snakes, an alligator, some small tortoises, a rabbit and a bat. The bat was probably the coolest thing. It was very cute... yes, I said it. The bat was cute.

I'm hooked. Now I NEED to train as an animal handler. As long as I don't have to see the tarantulas. That's where I draw the line.

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Oh and a shout-out goes to Lis. Happy Birthday!!!!!