On February 15th I collected Heather and Samantha and we headed for the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC - the closest zoo to us. It's about 90 min. or so away from our house and a little further from Heather's. It was a gorgeous day for Samantha's first Zoo outing and we had a grand time. January's very warm weather had a magnolia tree in bloom but the blossoms were "dying on the vine" because of the week of 20 degree weather we've had. I am sure everything will recover in time - just a little confused about the timing I am sure. We got there a little late so a lot of the animals were sleeping but it was still a fun visit.

Samantha was best with the larger animals and especially those that were moving though one of the lizards (a gecko to her) caught her attention and of course the fish in the aquarium. She loved watching the lorikeets even though she didn't try to feed any. Just watching those brightly colored birds flying around and zipping over her head and by her shoulders fascinated her. Her highlight of the day had to be her first pony ride. So of course there are lots of pictures of the event to commemorate it for her future. The big black vulture wasn't such a hit. As long as he was sitting on the man's arm he was fine .. but the minute he spread those big wings it was "Mom get me out of here!".

In the "petting zoo" she watched the goats and a llama and hugged the big cow. Not in the least bit afraid of that enormous cow.. No wonder she had no problem with the pony ride.

The gorilla in the enclosure is Mike from the San Diego Zoo who came to Columbia in 1992. It doesn't look like it from the pictures but they have a wonderful "San Diego Zoo" type enclosure. Like the SD Zoo gorillas though it was mid afternoon and he was settled in for his afternoon siesta close to the glass viewing area.

The day ended up 3pm with a very exhausted Samantha more than ready for a nap. We hadn't even pulled out of the parking lot before she was sleep. We made a fast trip home and timed it just right before the rush hour traffic. A wonderful day and we look forward to going again.

Samantha with the Lorikeets - While she didn't feed them she loved watching them

Samantha Really Loved That Pony Ride!!!!

The Vulture was Ok ...