Wild animals take over library

By: J. Leslie Riseden

Special Contributor to The Steel Country Bee

Well, not so wild, really, but they certainly did take over. Diane Condarco of Rancho Condarco brought her Petting Zoo to the Hughes Springs Area Library July 7, as part of the library’s summer program.

Children took turns entering the gates to pet the adorable assortment of goats, chickens, ducks, bunnies, and potbellied pigs. Some kids sat quietly and held soft bunnies in their laps, some tried to quack like the ducks, and still others enjoyed running around the pen trying to corral the pigs and goats.

The hot Texas sun didn’t discourage over 80 children who waited patiently to have a chance to pet the animals. All the animals were in the shade, kept cool with fans, plenty of water, and even ice packs. “They ride here in air-conditioning, and they ride home in air-conditioning,” said Ms. Condarco. “We do this a lot, and we make sure the animals stay cool while we’re outside.”

The Hughes Springs Area Library has more activities planned every Thursday for the rest of July. Check the Happenings section of the Steel Country Bee for upcoming events.