Wickmeads residents enjoy a wild afternoon with Creature Teachers
Residents at Care South’s Wickmeads care home in Tuckton, Bournemouth, enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon of animal encounters when Creature Teachers visited the home with a fascinating collection of reptiles, furry friends and a very special feathered guest.
The visit was organised as part of the home’s autumn activities programme, giving residents the opportunity to celebrate the changing seasons while getting up close to animals they might not normally have the chance to meet.
From a friendly python and a curious lizard to cuddly rabbits, playful ferrets and a magnificent barn owl, the afternoon was filled with excitement, laughter and plenty of surprises.
A slithering start to the afternoon
The animal encounters began with the introduction of a beautiful tan-coloured python, which quickly challenged some of the residents’ expectations about snakes.
Despite its appearance, the python was calm and comfortable being handled, allowing residents to experience what it felt like to touch and hold a snake.
Resident Pat was the first to meet the unusual visitor, and the pair quickly formed a connection.
Pat said: “I have never been this close to a snake before and he felt really smooth and not what I had expected at all.”
The python then made its way around the room, giving other residents the opportunity to meet it. The experience proved surprisingly popular, with the curious reptile even climbing around a few residents’ necks.
For many, it was their first opportunity to get so close to a snake, making the encounter an exciting and memorable experience.
A curious lizard makes new friends
Next to make an appearance was a small black lizard, which delighted residents with its calm and gentle nature.
The little reptile appeared perfectly content sitting in the palms of residents’ hands, allowing them to stroke its head and admire its features.
Residents were fascinated by the lizard’s behaviour, particularly the way it seemed to look directly into their eyes as they interacted with it.
The encounter provided another opportunity to discover more about reptiles and appreciate animals that are often misunderstood.
Cuddly rabbits and playful ferrets bring back memories
After meeting the reptiles, it was time for some familiar furry friends to make an appearance.
A wonderfully soft rabbit was introduced to the group, happily settling onto residents’ laps for some gentle attention.
The rabbit proved particularly popular, with its visit sparking fond memories of family pets from years gone by.
Residents reminisced about keeping rabbits in garden hutches when their children were younger, sharing stories about caring for them and the enjoyment they brought to family life.
The next visitors were two well-behaved ferrets, which brought plenty of amusement to the room.
Their appearance prompted a light-hearted conversation about the traditional association between ferrets and working men in Yorkshire, including the old tales of people keeping ferrets down their trousers.
The stories certainly raised a smile, particularly from resident Jan, who enjoyed the humorous memories and conversations inspired by the animals.
A magical encounter with a barn owl
The afternoon’s grand finale came with the arrival of a magnificent barn owl, whose striking appearance reminded residents of the owls featured in the Harry Potter films.
The beautiful bird was introduced to everyone around the room, allowing residents to admire its soft feathers, distinctive heart-shaped face and impressive features.
However, the biggest surprise was still to come.
As a special finale, the barn owl spread its wings and took flight around the room, demonstrating its remarkable flying abilities.
Residents watched in amazement as the owl flew through the air before landing on their outstretched arms, where it received a tasty treat as a reward.
The experience provided a wonderful opportunity for residents to interact with a bird of prey in a safe and engaging environment.
With the visit taking place during the Halloween season, the owl’s impressive performance brought a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘trick or treat’!
Bringing the wonders of wildlife to Wickmeads
The Creature Teachers visit was a wonderful opportunity for residents to discover more about the animal kingdom while enjoying meaningful interactions with a variety of creatures.
Animal encounters can provide opportunities for sensory stimulation, encourage conversation and help residents connect with treasured memories of pets and wildlife from earlier in life.
Throughout the afternoon, residents were encouraged to participate at their own pace, whether they wanted to hold an animal, gently stroke its fur or simply enjoy watching from a comfortable distance.
The experience also created plenty of opportunities for residents to share stories, ask questions and enjoy the company of their friends.
At Wickmeads, the dedicated activities team organises a varied programme of activities and experiences that reflect residents’ individual interests and encourage curiosity, enjoyment and companionship.
From seasonal celebrations and creative workshops to visiting entertainers and animal encounters, there are always opportunities for residents to try something different while continuing to enjoy the things they love.
The visit from Creature Teachers perfectly captured Care South’s ethos of Food, Fun and Friendship, bringing residents together for an afternoon of discovery, laughter and unforgettable moments.
Following such a successful visit, residents and the Wickmeads team are already looking forward to welcoming Creature Teachers back in 2027.
