by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
A very exciting animal and science show recently took place at the Needham Free Public Library (NFPL). Children and their caregivers gathered in the community room to meet the husband and wife duo that own Records and Burpee, a family farm that had brought several animals to showcase for the event.
The presentation kicked off with a discussion about pets, including researching them thoroughly and considering all of your desired pet’s needs. Many of the animals at Records and Burpee were taken in when folks got animals that they couldn’t continue to care for, such as the first animal they brought out: Bob, an American alligator! Though currently only a couple feet long, Bob’s expected to grow to be upwards of 16 feet, which certainly eliminated him from being in the running for ideal pet.
The squeals of shock at seeing an alligator in person soon turned to squeals of delight as Rosella the alpaca was walked out. She was adorable, with bushy, soft-looking hair that host Lee Burpee styled into a cone on top of the alpaca’s head. This made her look like a bit like a unicorn, much to the kid’s delight. In addition to the alligator and alpaca, there was a charming little squirrel monkey, two loud and colorful macaws, a delightful Nigerian Dwarf goat, and a couple of pythons, that varied in size from the common pet ball python to the giant Burmese. Arguably the most thrilling animal that Records and Burpee brought along, however, was a friendly adult red kangaroo. She hopped freely around the room for a few minutes, startling some and delighting many.
Records and Burpee is owned by Larry Records and Lee Burpee. Their private, 28-acre farm, which boasts 90 animals - most of them rescues - is located in Dudley, Massachusetts. They bring their educational animals to libraries, schools, parks, fairs, and more to both entertain teach the public about them.
The library hosts an array of exciting events for all ages. You can find a list of upcoming events at NeedhamLibrary.org.
