Published: April 13, 2009 10:12 am      

Egg hunters go wild at the Frank Buck Zoo

Around 178 people arrived at Frank Buck Zoo early Saturday morning for the fourth annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny event.

At 8:15 a.m., four different age groups ranging from toddlers to 12 year olds set off at various locations in the zoo for an Easter egg hunt.

After the grass was bare of neon colored plastic eggs and all the children’s baskets were full, breakfast was then served in the Leonard Park Pavilion. Sponsored by IHOP, the Easter egg hunters along with their families enjoyed eggs, pancakes, biscuits and gravy.

Frank Buck Zoo volunteers Sharon Clements, Kellie Duggan and Education Coordinator Ryan Herman were present to introduce the children to some new animal friends including a tortoise and rabbit.

Eager children also lined up in the pavilion to get their photo taken with the Easter Bunny, himself.

Frank Buck Zoo Director Susan Kleven said this year’s turnout was pretty much even with last year’s.

“I think it’s probably pretty similar with last year’s attendance,” said Kleven. “I think at this point, we’ve got it down to a science now which is a good thing.”

Kristen Burgess of Gainesville said she decided to bring her children to the event so that they could see the Easter Bunny and hunt some eggs before Easter day.

“You know, we always heard about this, but never actually came,” said Burgess. “We’re just so excited to be here today. The kids woke up really early because they just couldn’t wait to come. It’s funny because you know they won’t wake up early for school, but they will for the Easter Bunny.”