Feeding animals helps kids' appetite for learning

Nothing is more cuddly than a fluffy rabbit, though turtles have their own appeal.

Kids got a chance to pet -- and feed -- both kinds of creatures Friday, along with an assortment of other mammal and reptile residents of the Connecticut Audubon Society's center on Burr Street.

The "Feeding Frenzy" gave youngsters a chance to interact with and learn about various kinds of animals, including a trio of mice and a guinea pig.

"It's a fun activity to break up the dullness of winter," said program coordinator Linnea McHenry, "but also educates kids about what certain reptiles and animals eat, and how to feed them."

Shaw Kassab, a Fairfield parent who also was on hand for the program, said, "The kids love to feed animals, and it's Friday and fun. We're part of a mom's club and look for entertaining activities to do with our children."

Turtles were housed in plastic tubs set on tabletops and the tubs were filled with water -- or not -- depending on whether the turtle's natural habitat is land or water. A cage held the mice, who mostly romped around on an exercise wheel. William, the rabbit, and Henry, the guinea pig, were held by program helpers Katy Parton and MacKenzie Brennan.

Children moved around the room to each of the displays, taking turns feeding and touching each creature.

"I like the guinea pig the best," Fairfielder Isabella Jalet, 8, decided, "because it's adorable. I gave him a piece of lettuce. He seemed to like it. I have two dogs at home. It's my job sometimes to feed them. It's fun to feed different animals, even the turtles."

Mike Lauterborn is a freelance writer.