Leesburg Animal Park Kicks Off 2011 Season

The Leesburg Animal Park kicked off its 2011 season on Saturday after being closed to the public since the first week of November.

A number of activities were available to the public including wagon rides, crafts and a new play area for kids. The 21 acre park is also home to a variety of animals including lemurs, monkeys, zebras and camels, all of which were eager to visit with the locals.

“The animals get excited because they like all the attention,” said Park Curator Leslie Eicher, who added that there were a number of baby animals just born. Among them were baby chickens and rabbits as well as a one week old goat and a two day old donkey. “We named him Eeyore because he's the first light grayish type color we've had.”

Eicher said the animal park is a good way for kids to get acclimated around the animals. Lots of times kids get terrified, she said, so it's better to bring them out when they're younger and get them used to it.

“All you see are little kids who are just fascinated,” said Admission Manager Nicola Alicandro. “For some of them it's the first time they've seen farm animals. Even if it's not they're just as amazed whether it's a turkey or something exotic.”

More than 400 people had attended the park as of 2 pm on Saturday, including the Bresser family who moved to area just last year.

“It was sort of a last minute decision to attend,” said Haymarket mom Lisa Bresser, who contemplated with her husband on purchasing the season pass. “We really like it. It's lots of fun and we couldn't beat the weather.”

Across the way was the Korin family who sat at a nearby picnic table making crafts. It wasn't the first time they've been to the park but they enjoy it every time they make a visit.

“It gives the kids a big space to run around while interacting with the animals,” said Ashburn mom Cindy Korin. "It's also a convenient location."

That's good news for Alicandro who said staff at the animal park has been working really hard to advance their family activities this year.

“We're really trying to ramp up something a little more exciting,” Alicandro said. “We really want to have a lot more hands on crafts for little kids and hands on experiences. So a lot more family oriented and a lot more interactive.”

Residents, both near and far, are invited to come out to the animal park as soon as they get the chance. The petting zoo will be open now through September.

Available are a number of petting and feeding areas, as well as exotic animal exhibits, live animal encounters, a picnic area, playground and moon bounce.

“There's a lot of bigger places out there,” Alicandro said. “We want to be somewhere where people come regularly.”

The Leesburg Animal Park is located at 19270 James Monroe Highway, in Leesburg. For information on admission prices, hours of operation or special activities call 703-433-0002 or visit www.leesburganimalpark.com.