Giraffes, Elephants, Cheetahs and so much more at the Roger Williams Park Zoo!
June 14, 2016
Recently, students from the West Wing, Upper Deck, and Simpkins went on an outing to Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, RI. The kids and staff spent the day visiting the various animals and their respective exhibits throughout the park. The students had an opportunity to pet some of the barnyard animals (goats, donkeys and alpacas) while giving the snakes and bats a wide berth! Everyone was excited to check out the elephants and the giraffes, and they got a kick out the Red River Hog who seemed to follow us as we walked through their exhibit. We didn’t catch a glimpse of the Siberian Tiger or the Moon Bear, but the giant anteater seemed to really draw the fascination of the kids. The Laughing Kookaberra put on a show for us as we moved through after visiting the kangaroos and Wallaby’s. The seals and the river otters were quick to draw the kids’ attention as they were active and playing in their exhibits.
The Cheetahs were lounging in their enclosure while keeping an eye on everyone who came to visit while the bison grazed in their exhibit. The Red Panda’s must have had an exhausting morning as they were sound asleep, draped over their climbing platforms. I wanted nothing to do with the Madagascar Hissing Cockroach, but the boys thought it was pretty cool and gross all at the same time. From the zebras and wildebeasts to the reptiles and vulture (which looked like a cartoon character!), the students were excited to see everything and visit each exhibit. Smiles and excitement was shown by all and they did an amazing job!
The students were very social, saying “hi” to other visitors along the way in very respectful and appropriate ways. I think a few would make outstanding zoo greeters someday as they were quick to lend a helping hand to anyone who wanted information about an exhibit! I was so proud of the group and very happy to be able to experience this trip with the students as they represented Latham well throughout the day!
Deb Smith
Residential Supervisor
