Skyler and Gabe Ross of Van Wert took turns feeding the reindeer at the Jungle Island Zoo on Tuesday.
Elijah Knodell/The Lima News
LIMA — While Ohio has its fair share of wildlife, there are some animals that you might not expect to cross paths with on any given day.
All that changes at the Allen County Fair, however, as fair-goers have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some exotic species from around the world. Animal lovers who want the chance to feed a camel or hold a baby kangaroo can head to the Jungle Island Zoo, which is tucked away in the Roschmann Park area of the fairgrounds.
Smiles were in abundance at the petting zoo’s tent Tuesday, as patrons young and old fed the animals on display and took photos.
Kim Osting, who owns Jungle Island Zoo with her husband Ben, said it’s an especially exciting experience for young children who may not have had many chances to see some of these species before.
“A lot of the animals they’ve never seen, and they can jump right up and pet them,” Osting said.
In addition to the more exotic species, there are also some animals with which local residents might be more familiar.
“We bring all different types of exotic animals — camels, kangaroos, reindeer, large tortoises…” Osting said. “And of course we have some different types of sheep and goats, alpacas, and more of your farm-type animals.”
For those looking for an especially immersive experience, there are a couple of opportunities to even go into the cage. In addition to the petting zoo, Jungle Island’s exhibit features an enclosed bird encounter where guests have the opportunity to interact with several hundred parakeets.
“We have around 350 parakeets. You can go in and feed them, and they land on you,” Osting said.
For $10 per person, guests can spring for the “Kangaroo Kuddle,” granting the chance to go inside the enclosure and to even hold a baby kangaroo. The fee includes feed for the kangaroos, as well as the opportunity to have a photo taken with the animals.
Jungle Island Zoo will remain open from noon to 9 p.m. for the duration of this year’s fair. Admission to the petting zoo is free, and feed can be purchased for a small fee.
