Sonoma State University’s Associated Students hosted its “Safari Encounters” event on Aug. 27. In a display of educational entertainment “Safari Encounters,” transformed the Student Center’s Ballroom A into a place of wildlife and interactive learning. The event attracted students, faculty and local community members for a day filled with wildlife encounters and educational activities.
Wildlife educator Daniel More, whose expertise spans from marine to crocodilian biology, presented at the event. With a passion for wildlife education, More captivated the audience with his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm. More’s favorite part of the day was the crowd’s reaction when he introduced a snapping turtle, a moment that elicited oohs and ahs from the crowd. He particularly enjoyed seeing people’s interest and eagerness to learn about reptiles.
Reflecting the core mission of the Safari Encounter event, More emphasized its key goals. “We really enjoy and strive to teach people what’s actually going on in the world and with wildlife,” More said. His presentation not only educated attendees about the specifics of the animals but also highlighted broader conservation issues, making the experience very informative.
Vanessa Mendoza, a third-year transfer student at Sonoma State, offered advice for future attendees. “Come early for good seats, so you can experience it to the fullest and see the animals close up,” Mendoza said. Describing her own experience at the event as eye-opening, Mendoza learned about the plight of sloths, many of which are now endangered due to habitat destruction, according to More. She also discovered that skunks can have different fur colors depending on their DNA.
One notable moment during “Safari Encounters” was the opportunity for a select few attendees to have hands-on interactions with the animals at the event. At the end of the event, Mendoza was one of the few attendees who won a raffle that gave her the chance to hold a sloth, an opportunity she described as eye-opening. “I had never gotten to do something like this before,” Mendoza said. “It really opened my eyes to how beautiful these animals are, and I gained a greater respect and love for sloths and all animals in general.”
As the day drew to a close, the attendees left the event feeling informed and gained a new found knowledge of exotic wildlife. “Safari Encounters” managed to exhilarate attendees, who learned about wildlife conservation through education and enjoyment, bridging the gap between education and enjoyment.
