What Do You Do at a Petting Zoo?

by Hana Machotka

The next time you visit a zoo or a county fair, keep your eyes open for the petting zoo. You'll probably find it under a gaily colored tent that keeps out the hot summer sun. Step up to the brightly painted railings, and watch the sheep and goats scramble over one another to greet their newest visitor! Drop a coin in the animal-feed machine, turn the knob, and cup your hands under the spout. Just as a mountain of pellets drops into your hands, a dozen soft tongues will tickle your palms. Suddenly you hands are empty again, a group of staring faces seems to be asking you, "Well, is that all?" Welcome to the petting zoo!

32 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1990