🦂 A Conversation in the Zoo.

"Write a story for kids."

Elephants, jaguars, rhinoceros, crocodiles, monkeys, and lions. Nature, people, food, and happiness. Do you know what I am trying to describe? We will dig in on a fascinating, uncharted, and sometimes dangerous topic in today's subject—animals in captivity.

    However, to take the necessary measures, the place will be a zoo—the staff cares about your safety, kids. Moreover, this zoo is not a normal one. It is the most important in the world—the San Diego Zoo in the state of California.

    This young boy over here is Marcos; he will be our companion today. Marcos turned nine last week and is pretty excited, as well as I am. Luckily, he already has some questions prepared, and we are happy to answer them. So, I will show you all the surroundings and some peculiarities, while the conversation goes on, please, follow me. 

    "Now, lad, you can start with your enigmas," said Miss Karmen while watching a green cage in front of her, containing a wolf pack. Next to it, if you paid attention, an aviary could be spotted.

    "Are the animals going to eat me or hurt me?"

    Such an exciting way of beginning. Thought the young girl. "Of course not, Marcos. Each animal is very respectful and friendly. Also, there is a delimited area where you can not pass. Just look at the floor; every cage has its own signage. Remember, we must respect them. 

    "How do you make any animal respond to you as you desire?" asked while the wolfs howled. 

    "Easy, they are domesticated. Moreover, we treat each species with love and patience, just like living beings." Miss Karmen murmured.

    "Can I take home one of those cats?" 

    "Tho are not cats, Marcos. Those are called Cheetahs—better known as the pure hunters."

    "Well, I guess that is it, teacher! Those were my doubts." finished Marcos. His eyes looked happy.    

    Miss Karmen tried to understand why he said that. She commented: "Okay, from now on, I will ask you the questions. I hope you are ready because they are everything but easy. I am kidding, no worries about them." the young lady declared. "The first one, lad. How many animals do you think this place has?"

    "Perhaps, one hundred, Miss?"

    "Woah, you almost got the result! Actually, we got across 3,400 and 3,600 of them. Quite a lot, eh?"

    "Miss Karmen, I did not expect that!"

    "Yet, it is not the greatest part. The number of species is. Would you believe if I tell you over 640 species are here right now, looking at us?"

    Marcos stopped a moment, whirled his entire body, sensed his sweat falling from his forehead, said: "What is your favorite pet, Miss?"

    "I do love reptiles, like crocodiles or alligators."

    "Tell me, Marcos. Have you ever see a crocodile or an alligator?" asked thoughtfully.

    "Once I heard those are dangerous, I saw them in the National Geographic opening their big mouths. They scare me," answered innocently.

    "Wonderful, at least you know they are 'bad boys.'" 

    "Until now, Marcos, if you could resume today's experience. What would you say?" she added.

 "Amazing! I think my friends will love to hear my story. I learned a lot. Let's go home." 

Onward...