Wildlife Enthusiasts captivate children at Blythewood Library

Chuck Alberding of Wildlife Geeks brought a menagerie of exotic animals to Blythewood Library to educate and entertain children as part of the Summer Learning Challenge. The interactive program aimed to change the way children think about wildlife, encouraging them to appreciate and protect these creatures. Alberding emphasized that many of the animals in his care are rescues, highlighting the importance of adopting and caring for wild animals.

During the program, children had the opportunity to interact with a variety of animals, including a ball python, chameleon, mata mata turtle, lizard, whip scorpion, prairie dog, guinea pigs, and a lion mane rabbit. The hands-on experience allowed the children to pet and observe these creatures up close, fostering a sense of connection and empathy towards them. Alberding encouraged the children to think of wild animals as beings rather than objects, emphasizing the importance of changing perceptions to promote conservation efforts.

Alberding and his family live with a diverse array of animals in their home near Greenville, S.C. From cold-blooded reptiles to exotic mammals and birds, their household is a sanctuary for rescued and rehabilitated wildlife. The children at the library program were captivated by Alberding’s stories and insights into caring for these animals, sparking a newfound enthusiasm for wildlife conservation.

Throughout the program, Alberding engaged the children with thought-provoking questions and interactive activities, encouraging them to think critically about the importance of wildlife preservation. The children left the library with a deeper appreciation for animals and a desire to learn more about conservation efforts. Alberding’s mission to change perceptions and promote respect for all wildlife, including insects and reptiles, resonated with the young audience.

Wildlife Geeks, operating under a U.S. Department of Agriculture license and fully insured, offers educational programs for a variety of events, including birthday parties, school visits, and scouting activities. Alberding’s passion for wildlife conservation shines through in his engaging presentations, inspiring children to become advocates for the protection of our natural world. The library program, sponsored by Prisma Health, was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the children who attended.