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August Weiss has fun feeding goats with a shovel of corn with his father, Ethan Weiss. Ayanna Eckblad/Albert Lea Tribune

In addition to exotic animals like kangaroos and porcupines, Thorni Ridge also has more classic petting zoo animals like goats and donkeys. Ayanna Eckblad/Albert Lea Tribune

Thorni Ridge Exotics petting zoo is ofering pony and camel rides at the Freeborn County Fair this week. Ayanna Eckblad/Albert Lea Tribune

Among some of the exotic animals at Thorni Ridge petting zoo are these capybaras native to Central and South America. Ayanna Eckblad/Albert Lea Tribune

Among some of the exotic animals at Thorni Ridge petting zoo is this oryx, a type of antelope. Ayanna Eckblad/Albert Lea Tribune

By Ayanna Eckblad

It was a busy day on the first day of the Freeborn County Fair as people rushed to see their favorite exhibits and eat their favorite fair food. However this year there is a new attraction for people to enjoy, Thorni Ridge Exotics petting zoo.

The mobile petting zoo, based in Missouri, has been in business for about 20 years and travels throughout the Midwest. This summer, they have gone to events in Owatonna, Rochester and Mower County.

Thorni Ridge has over 20 types of animals including “classic” petting zoo animals like goats, donkeys and pigs, while also boasting a collection of exotic animals like kangaroos, porcupines, capybaras and more.

During this week at the fair, Thorni Ridge will offer pony rides, camel rides and kangaroo encounters. Guests can also purchase cups of corn or carrots to feed the animals for $5. The petting zoo saw a lot of activity opening day as families wandered in to see the different species of animals.

The animals at Thorni Ridge were ready for the attention, oftentimes sticking their heads out when they saw visitors as they expected to get a snack.

According to staff, the best part of events such as the Freeborn County Fair is watching people’s reactions when they get to experience seeing an exotic animal for the first time.

Thorni Ridge will be at the Freeborn County Fair through Sunday and open during regular fair hours.

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