What a great opportunity to hone my interpretive skills, the FCF class “Feline Conservation Education” seemed to be a perfect fit to supplement my knowledge about wild cat conservation and how to share it with the public.

Ron DeArmond proved to be a warm and energetic educator for the subject. The class was framed around the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association Introduction to Wildlife Education Programming.  Ron did a great job leading us through this guide to discover new tools to develop or enrich our presentations.

The class included animal lovers, trainers, owners, professional educators and newcomers to the field.  Several of the participants had exotic cats at home and they were laying the groundwork to start a wildlife education outreach program in their own community.  Some participants are already involved in community education and wanted to improve their presentations.

Ron covered subjects including organizing presentations, learning styles, age appropriate presentations and educational aids. 

Throughout the class, Ron generously shared his own grains of wisdom and experiences.  Of course, quality care for the animal ambassadors was always emphasized. 

The important aspects of regulations, permits, dealing with agency representatives and insurance were discussed.  Safety was a continuing theme throughout the class.

The course seemed thorough and well balance with plenty of time for Q&A throughout the day.  I feel this is a valuable resource and hope it is offered regularly.
 
Leslie Thalman

I have been interpreting African wildlife at Safari West Wildlife Preserve for 15 years.  I am the lead guide and am responsible for training our guide staff to lead tours over the 400-acre property.  We educate guests about animals including Fennec Fox to Rhinos, Weaver Birds to Saddle Billed Storks. We have a very short three hours to describe close to forty mammals species and over fifty bird species.  I enjoy the privilege of being one of the caretakers of Safari West’s four cheetahs.