PHOTO BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
A FEATHERED GIANT … A one-year-old ostrich already towers over zookeepers. This native African bird doesn’t need to fly when its head can reach over 6 feet tall.
By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Children and families packed the West Unity Branch Library on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, for an up-close encounter with wildlife as the Exotic Zoo of Toledo made a stop in Williams County.
The free program, hosted by the Williams County Public Library as part of its 2026 Summer Reading Program, introduced attendees to a variety of exotic animals from around the world.
Visitors had the opportunity to learn about each animal’s habitat, behavior and unique characteristics while seeing them up close.
One of the most popular animals featured during the event was a one-year-old ostrich. Native to Africa, ostriches are the largest birds in the world and can grow to more than 8 feet tall.
Despite being unable to fly, they are fast runners, capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.
Another crowd favorite was a silver fox kit. Silver foxes are a rare color variation of the red fox, distinguished by their dark coats with silver-tipped fur. Native to Russia, they are known for their intelligence and playful nature.
Throughout the presentation, Exotic Zoo staff shared fun facts and educational information while encouraging hands-on interaction from children.
The West Unity event was one of several Exotic Zoo appearances scheduled throughout Williams County this summer.
Additional stops included the Edgerton and Edon branch libraries on June 3, 2026.
Upcoming visits to the Bryan Main Library at the Fountain City Amphitheater and the Pioneer Branch Library are scheduled for July 1, 2026. All Exotic Zoo events are free and open to the public.
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