Zoo animals visit MacDill

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sarah Hall-Kirchner
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Furry friends from Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, Fla., visited MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. on Oct. 4, 2013.

During Seascape's' weekly Friday Family Fun Night, the animals and their handlers educated fascinated children and adults.

"The presentation is more educational than just going to the zoo," said Tech. Sgt. Peter Little, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron, of bringing his children to the presentation. "I want to expose them to science and nature."

About 150 people interacted with the animals as their handlers explained about the animals, their habitats, their habits, and what they like to do.

Melinda Mendolusky, Lowry Park Zoo animal care manager, explained that they participate in programs such as this to keep people informed on what is going on around the world and what they can do to help.

"We want to provide an opportunity for military families to see the animals and become educated," said Mendolusky. "We want to fulfill the mission statement of the zoo, to give the community a deeper appreciation of animals as a whole."

As the sun set on the event, Team MacDill bid farewell to the animals.

"My favorite animal was the porcupine," said Samantha, 6, daughter of Little. "I learned that he doesn't shoot his quills, but if you touch him, it will hurt."