the nature center...

i am a bit behind on my posting...but such is life during spring/garden season, right??

during orin's, grade 4 "local geography" block, we packed in loads of field trips. one of which was the wnc (western north carolina) nature center.

the nature center is wonderful chance for children, of all ages, to get an up close look at the vast number of birds, mammals, reptiles, etc who live in our region. most, if not all, of the animals have been rescued after being injured in the wild.

we used to go each march for aydin's birthday, but go various time throughout the year as well. each time we go it is different...and as nature & animal lovers, this is one place that will never get old!

the weather was gorgeous, the animals were very much out & about, and we all got loads of exercise hiking up & down the various paths...

ahhh...the pround peacock...

i love this!

a sweet burro...

a visit to the 'petting zoo'...

i have a soft spot in my heart for the fiber-licious lot...;)

awww...sweet goats!

a really creepy stuffed turkey...

black bear, a bit camera shy...

white tailed deer...

carolina fringe tree...

our all-time favorite, the ever entertaining river otter...this one's name is obi wan (no, really!)

oodles of turtles...

red wolf...

we happened upon this barred owl near the end of our trip, he was out on his daily walk. he cannot be released back into the wild because he is missing nearly his entire left wing (he was hit by a car :(

rattlers...

very cool...

you know why i had to add the one, right?? ;)