Rupert's British wildlife educational experience and Emilia's birthday party!

Today was a busy one for us! We spent the morning with Rupert who's dad had booked him a 1hr educational encounter with the British wildlife ambassadors. The team consisted of Freddie the tawny owl, Bob the kestrel, slow worms, sand lizards, smooth snakes, grass snakes and toads. All these animals are in decline in the UK and of conservation concern, so it was a perfect opportunity to spark an interest in protecting these wonderful creatures by teaching Rupert all about them and allowing him chances to handle them. The only one he was a little nervous over was the big common toad, but his dad Trevor put on a brave face and held her instead!

The animals had a little break before heading over to a local party for Emilia's 7th birthday! Emilia is a big animal lover so this was the perfect birthday experience for her. Along with her friends, she had the opportunity to handle a couple of reptiles and the toad, and then we all went outside to have a go at handling the birds of prey after learning a little bit about falconry practices. Bob finished the birthday off by doing a little flight in the garden to his lure which was the perfect ending.  

Meeting these animals  up close allows the opportunity for people to connect with these animals that they otherwise would struggle to see in the wild, which in turns helps to build an essential interest and desire to protect and care for these animals in the wild.

All below photos are of Rupert's one to one educational experience.