A Field Trip that Opened Eyes, Hearts, and Hands
🌿 Stepping Into the World of Animal Rescue
Our young animal advocates took a special trip to ACRES (Animal Concerns Research and Education Society)—a visit they had eagerly awaited since the launch of our “Young Hearts for Wild Lives: Together for Tomorrow” project. It was more than just a field trip; it was a transformative experience.
Excitement in the air as we arrived at ACRES!
🐢 Ancient Lives: Meeting the Turtles of ACRES
One of the most surprising and fascinating facts the children learned was that turtles can live over 100 years! The children were amazed to meet both American and European turtles, with their names carefully written on their shells. They also learned that some turtles were ready to return home to India, where they belong in the wild.
A century of wisdom in one shell!
🐦 A Cautionary Tale: Why Not to Feed the Pigeons
The children were deeply moved after learning about the rescued pigeons at ACRES. While feeding pigeons may seem kind, the children discovered that it can lead to unhealthy dependency and overcrowding—causing some communities to use poison to drive them away. Many of the pigeons at ACRES are survivors of this cruel fate.
Gentle birds with a story of survival.
🦜 Meet the Little Green Parrot Without a Tail
One of the stars of the day was a small, green parrot who had lost its tail. The children watched with care as they learned how the team at ACRES is helping the parrot heal, regain balance, and re-learn how to fly, so it can enjoy life in the trees once again.
Small but strong — a parrot on the path to recovery.
👷♀️ Role-Play With a Purpose: Becoming Wildlife Rescuers
A fun and meaningful part of the visit was the role-play activity, where children became ACRES volunteers. Some played the role of citizens spotting animals in need and calling for help. Others took on the exciting role of the rescue team, traveling to the scene to help the animals.
Future wildlife heroes in training.
🏡 Rehabilitate, Then Release
As the children toured the rehabilitation areas, they learned how ACRES works tirelessly to help animals recover. Once the animals regain their strength and natural instincts, they are either released back into the wild or returned to their home countries. But not all rescues can be released right away.
Some animals were previously kept as pets through illegal wildlife trade, making them dependent on humans. ACRES patiently works with them to rebuild the skills they need to survive in the wild on their own.
Healing and hope — one step at a time.
💖 A Stronger Bond, A Bigger Dream
By the end of the visit, the children were even more determined to support rescued animals and the work ACRES is doing. They left inspired, informed, and full of ideas on how to help.
💬 “I want to be a turtle rescuer when I grow up!” 💬 “We should tell more people not to feed pigeons.”
🎉 Coming Up Next: Fundraising for Our Wild Friends!
This visit has sparked something beautiful—our children are now planning a fundraising event to support the rescued animals they’ve met. Every small act counts, and our young hearts are ready to make a big impact.
Stay tuned for more updates on how we continue to care, connect, and create change—together for tomorrow. 🌍💚
