Exotic animals visited the library as part of the Bethlehem Area Public Library’s Summer Programming. Animal rescue group Eyes of the Wild brought some of their educational animals to the Southside and Coolidge branches July 5, and to the Main Library on Church Street July 25.

Jen from Eyes of the Wild brought five creatures to show the families at the Main Library. With each animal, she explained how the creature ended up at the rescue. Many were abandoned pets. Jen said to be careful when choosing a pet. How long will it live? A tortoise will outlive most humans. Jen said the tortoise would be cared for by herself, then her children, and someday her grandchildren, “and I don’t even have grandchildren yet!”

Does it smell? Ferrets are fun, but besides their distinctive odor, Jen also explained, “Ferrets sleep 16 to 18 hours a day. When you want to play with them, they may be napping, and they don’t like to be waked up. When they are up and want to play, you will probably be asleep. “ The tiny Sugar Glider had adorable big eyes. It is also nocturnal by nature.

The beautiful Angora rabbit was big. It also has a lot of hair and requires frequent grooming. Sadly, many rabbits that arrive at the rescue are “discarded Easter bunnies.”

The final creature was enticed to exit its carrier by a banana. Jen explained the creature had only been on three visits so far, and, “he might not want to leave his carrier.” The next several minutes were a bit comedic, as Jen tried to coax the reluctant porcupine from his shelter by holding the banana above it. Even when she returned the cover to the carrier, hilarity ensued. Jen asked, “Do you want to come back out?” Three times. Each time, the porcupine would grasp the carrier lid with his paw and try to pull it over himself. This sweet shy critter was also a discarded pet.

After talking about each animal, Jen took questions.

While showing the ferret, she talked about its work in electrical work laying wires and in catching mice. Jen demonstrated the ferret’s flexibility, and she involved the children in the audience, having them touch their knees, toes, and face to toes.

Eyes of the Wild is based on a 21-acre farm in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. They take in exotic animals who became unwanted pets, also illegally acquired pets, and animals that cannot survive in the wild. They also offer various education programs. Visit their website eyeswild.com for more information.