Animals take over Strathmore Stampede

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Calgary Reptile Parties and Cobb’s Adventure Park are making their debut appearance with the Strathmore Stampede this year.

Jason Clevett, owner of Calgary reptile parties and YYC Nature Education Center, said the team will be taking over the curling rink to host an exhibit for attendees to learn about animals they likely don’t see on a regular basis.

“It’s nice to be able to do this. We do a lot of touring events and fairs, but there’s something kind of special about doing it in our own backyard,” said Clevett. “Not only do we not have to spend five days on the road away from home, but we get to see people who maybe didn’t know that our company … we are out here and are available for people to visit and engage with.”

Calgary Reptile Parties and Cobb’s Adventure Park will be bringing a jungle exhibit to the Strathmore Stampede, as well as some kangaroos and wallabies for people to engage with and learn about.

“Jungles cover a massive portion of the world and have a huge amount of biodiversity in it, so it’s really the opportunity to focus on a combination of seeing the animals and learning the importance of jungles,” said Clevett. “We have rainforests here in Canada and (in) B.C., so it helps to connect people to see some of the animals that would live in those spaces and realize that this is what’s being affected when we destroy habitats.”

As organizations, Calgary Reptile Parties and Cobb’s Adventure Park aim to have a positive impact for conservation, respect for wildlife and responsible pet ownership.

All the animals on display at the Strathmore Stampede are animals which may be legally acquired as pets, though Clevett discourages folks from adopting an animal only to decide they don’t want it after a short period of time.

“Animals that are also misunderstood, are not really respected and are feared such as snakes, tarantulas and scorpions, we’re going to have on exhibit so people can see them up close, ask questions and learn about them,” he said. “So many people meet the baby wallabies and fall in love with them. And, I mean, I’m in love with them too, but they can’t be litter trained, they poop everywhere, they’re not really a pet. They live at Cobb’s in a massive outdoor space because they are not a house pet.”

Clevett added he hopes the exhibit at the Stampede will be a good opportunity for people to learn about proper eco-tourism and stewardship, particularly when travelling.

For those who are curious to learn more beyond the Stampede, they are encouraged to visit Cobb’s Adventure Park in Calgary, or to not be shy about reaching out for more information about conservation and stewardship efforts.

Calgary Reptile Parties and Cobb’s Adventure Park will be present during all four days of the Strathmore Stampede, from July 29 to Aug. 1 in the Strathmore Curling Club from event opening until closing, daily.