The children were buzzing with excitement when Exmoor Zoo came to visit, bringing a wonderful opportunity to learn all about how animals are classified. The children discovered the differences between various groups of creatures while seeing some fascinating examples up close.  

There were stick insects cleverly camouflaged, wriggly millipedes, and even a snake called ‘fruit salad’ that captured everyone’s curiosity. The children were given the opportunity to touch or hold some of the creatures if they wanted to.  

The highlight for many was meeting a cheeky meerkat called Rascal, who was gentle enough for the children to carefully touch. They were intrigued to learn that Rascal had once been kept as a pet before the zoo stepped in to give him the proper care he needed. Because meerkats are naturally very family-orientated, Rascal couldn’t join the zoo’s other meerkats—but he has found his own unique companionship instead, living happily alongside a German Shepherd! 

It was fabulous to see the children having this unique opportunity up close learning about animal lives in such a positive way. The children were kind and thought whilst waiting for the animals and they were very quiet so they didn’t frighten them. We are so proud of all of the children.