JoJo Kershner holds Tater-Tot, a Capybara, for children to pet during a Wild Things presentation. Photo by Christoper Pedigo

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – On Friday, June 27, Gridley Friends of the Library hosted the Wild Things Wildlife Program at the Guardian Building.

In years past, the event was held at the library multi-purpose room but it was so popular that it had to be moved to a bigger location. Many eager children and their parents showed up for the event. Children sat on the floor, anxiously awaiting each animal to be shown.

JoJo Kershner first captivated the audience with a large frog named Dewey Hopper, then a black and white striped Tegu lizard named Tia. Next were Nova, the Great Horned Owl and Spike, an alligator.

Kershner relayed some interesting facts about the animals, such as the owl has seven extra bones in her neck, allowing the bird to turn her head 270 degrees, almost completely around. She ended up at Wild Things because she had been hit by a car, injuring her left wing.

He informed the audience that Tegu lizards have become an invasive species in southern U.S. swamps. Alligators such as Spike also hail from southern swamps and can swim faster than dolphins, according to Kershner.  Previously endangered, there are more than 2-million alligators in North American swamps, according to the animal handler.

JoJo Kershner enlists the help of volunteers to hold a massive snake, part of the Wild Things presentation held recently. Photo by Chris Pedigo

Capybaras are the world’s largest rodent species and capable of running at speeds up to 22 MPH, Kershner told the captivated crowd.

By far, the animal that stole the show was Tater Tot, a 2-year-old capybara. Native to South America, this capybara was born when the mother went to Wild Things and rejected the baby. Kershner bottle-fed Tater Tot from the time she was 4 days old.

Everyone lined up to pet the animal. The line stretched halfway around the room but no one complained. The children were delighted.

In conclusion, Kershner encouraged everyone to recycle, pick up garbage and to get involved in what you care about.

Most of the animals at Wild Things have been injured or displaced and can no longer survive in the wild.

The organization is based in Colfax in Placer County. If you have an animal that needs rehoming, call Wild Things at 530-878-2618.