Year 1's Exciting Visit from Zoolab
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Year 1 had an exciting visit from Zoolab. The children were shown how to handle a range of animals.
First they were introduced to an African Snail. The children were amazed to find out that snails have two noses, 10,000 teeth, lay 300 eggs at a time.
Next, they were introduced to Storm (the Madagascan Cockroach) who was two years old. They were amazed to hear that there are only four things that cockroaches do not eat - bricks, metal, plastic and glass. They have spikey legs which worn off birds if they try to eat them and they can survive for a whole year in a freeze. They also have 2 brains, you'll never guess where the second one is!
The third animal shown to Year 1 was a Chilean Rose Tarantula, called Mary Jane. She is only awake for around 15 mins each day so was quite sleepy. Unfortunately, the children were not able to handle the Tarantula as the hair of a Tarantula can cause irritation. The boys in the class were horrified to hear that female Tarantulas live to around 40 years, while the males only live for 10 years as they are eaten by the females. They can also have up to 1,000 babies at a time.
The fourth animal was Dexter the Corn Snake. He had the best hearing of all the animals. The children loved to stroke and hold the snake, even the teachers were very brave. They were fascinated to find out that snakes have 500 bones and about 10,000 muscles and use their tongues to smell.
The final animal was Hulk the Australian Frog. The children got to see him in his cage as he would be too jumpy if he came out. Frogs are also very sensitive to soap as this can harm their body. The children also learnt that tap water can also harm a frog. Therefore, the handler thought it was best to keep Hulk in his container for the visit.
We were all very impressed by the children's listening skills, interesting questions and knowledge of animal groups. Well done Year 1!
