A few weeks back, Lenoir City High School’s creative writing, journalism, and digital arts classes took a field trip to the Knoxville Zoo. The daylong trip allowed students to explore real-world examples of the ecosystems and animal adaptations within their surroundings. Several students and teachers boarded buses early in the morning, filled with excitement and curiosity. The weather was crisp and sunny, meaning it was an ideal day for the outdoors among some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. For many students, it was their first visit to the zoo, and the experience left a lasting impression.
Sandy Herrera (11), a student in the creative writing class, shares how her experience opened her eyes.
“I’ve always liked animals, but seeing them up close made me realize how much they behave like us in some ways,” Herrera said, “It was both sad and beautiful to hear that they care so deeply for each other.”
Upon arriving, students split into small groups to tour various exhibits. Some began their day in the gorilla exhibit while other students were admiring the giraffes and how they grazed lazily. The zoo’s guide explained how giraffes’ long necks allow them to feed from treetops and how elephants use their trunks for everything from feeding to greeting one another. At this time, the people could not feed the giraffes due to sanitary purposes.
The tour continued through the “tropical” path, filled with tropical birds like bright green toucans. Students could learn about the animals’ background and where they originated from. Naydeline Gonzalez (11), was captivated by the colorful bald eagles that squawked playfully overhead.
“Well, the gorilla section was my favorite but the birds were very pretty,” Gonzalez said, “The information explained how the animals have gone through a long journey to get to where they are now. I loved seeing how everything in nature connects, it’s like one big family.”
For lunch, Gonzalez gathered in the zoo’s dining area with her group to enjoy a tasty meal while feeling a nice breeze of the outdoors.
“I really liked the food they gave at the place, it was nice and fresh. I mainly liked the drinks, the sprite tasted so rich. The cashier and customer service was great. They were very kind to everyone in line,” Gonzalez said.
“It made me think about how so many foods and drinks can have a similar taste even though they come from different places,” Gonzalez said.
In addition to the exploring, students enjoyed some downtime exploring the zoo’s new exhibits. The most popular stop of the afternoon was the Red Panda Grove, home to playful cubs who recently joined the zoo family. Phones and cameras were out as students snapped photos, and enjoyed snacks in the picnic area. Junior Leandro Jimenez (11), who was a part of the group, summed up the excitement of the day.
“It’s different when you can actually see how animals move and interact. You start to understand why their adaptations are so important, and it makes you want to protect them,” Jimenez said.
