Texas Christmas

 Texas bullsnake at Wichita Falls, Texas, Riverbend Nature Center.
Children are both trusting and brave, or at least braver than most adults.
I certainly didn't want to touch the snake but the grandkids did.  In fact, they were fascinated, probably because our guide was so matter-of-fact about handling all manner of phobia inducing fauna.

Kevin, our guide pointed out this snake was about to shed it's skin because the eyes were very glazed over. If you are in this area the staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

Albino catfish and turtle fascinates a one year old.

Praire dogs also entertained.

Roadrunners spread their plummage to help regulate their body temperature. This was interesting to observe and learn about.

This roadrunner was very tame having been raised at the center.

 The Nature Center was educational and interesting. I didn't get pictures of the  live Meadagascar roaches which were huge and the brown recluse and black widow spiders because I was intently listening to the guide.

 I was so impressed with the resources at the center including videos.

 This is an oriole bird's nest made out of fishing line. Our guide pointed out the problems that occur in nature if things are not disposed of properly.

A traditional oriole nest from natures materials.

We don't get to see these kids very often so this was a special time for us. Didn't get many Christmas pictures because little kids move so fast and I was enjoying the moments too. So we had two Christmases one in Alabama and one in Texas. How cool is that!

Linking to: Oh, the PLACES, I've been,  and Wow us Wednesdays.