Here's a little secret: the animals can tell who the good guests are. The calm, patient, gentle ones? Those are the people the goats wander over to and the alpacas lean in to sniff. Want to be that person? Here's my quick guide to farm manners. Feel free to read it out loud in the car on the way over.
1. Use your inside voice (outside)
Many of our animals, including alpacas, sheep and kangaroos, are prey animals. That means loud noises and sudden movements can make them nervous. Calm voices and slow movements help them feel safe, and a relaxed animal is a lot more likely to come say hi.
2. Let the animals come to you
Chasing an animal is the fastest way to make sure it never wants to see you again. Stand or crouch quietly and let curiosity do its thing. Our goats in particular can't resist checking out a new person. Patience pays off.
3. Gentle hands, always
If an animal comes close enough to touch, use a soft, open hand. Most animals prefer a gentle scratch on the neck or back to a pat on the head. And please, no grabbing ears, tails or fleece. Nobody likes that. Just ask any little brother.
4. Listen to our staff
Our crew knows every animal: who's friendly, who's shy, who's a little sassy and who needs space today. If a staff member asks you to step back or not to touch a certain animal, there's always a good reason. They're there to help you have a great time and keep everyone safe.
5. Only feed when it's okay
Our animals have carefully planned diets, and some foods that are fine for people can make animals really sick. Please don't share your snacks, no matter how much those big eyes beg. If feeding is part of your experience, our staff will let you know what's okay and how to do it.
6. Keep fingers outside the fence
Fences are there for a reason. Please don't climb on them, sit on them or reach over them unless a staff member says it's okay. Curious mouths can mistake fingers for treats.
7. Wash up afterward
Animals are wonderful, but they're still animals. Washing or sanitizing hands after your visit, and before eating, is a good habit for everyone, especially little ones.
8. Have fun!
Seriously, that's the most important rule. Ask questions, take a million pictures and enjoy every minute. We have more than 130 animals across 14 species, and they're all pretty fun to hang out with.
Have more questions before you come? Our FAQ page has answers to the most common ones. We'll see you (and your excellent farm manners) soon!
