By Mary Ellen Day, Special Writer
Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of 193 got an up close and personal look at some wildlife at last week’s pack meeting.
The Scouts were educated about reptiles and animals they most likely would not see around Manville.
Scoutmaster Jim Kelly brought Rizzo’s Reptiles to the meeting so the boys, friends, parents and siblings could learn about these animals. Dominick Rizzo, a wildlife educator, showed turtles, a baby alligator, a chinchilla, lizard and a hedgehog. He also showed a few poisonous animals from a scorpion, millipede and a toad.
”We believe the love of wildlife is universal, and hands-on participation is the greatest teacher,” Mr. Rizzo said.
There was fun during the meeting, too. Turtles were raced, and the Scouts were able to look at and touch a few of the animals. Some were cute, and some were scary.
At the end of the program, Mr. Rizzo brought out a huge python snake and asked for volunteers. Three Scout moms Jill Peterson, Barb Bezick and Angie Petti came up.
From behind, Mr. Rizzo reached over their heads and placed the large snake in their hands. The moms squirmed at first and were not too happy, but, after a while, they were somewhat comfortable holding the creature. Boys and other parents were allowed to touch the snake for themselves.
To join the Scouts and be a part of programs like this one, contact Mr. Kelly at [email protected].
