Last Tuesday at the Cheyenne Beavers we had an unusual visitor. Ian arrived at the Scout Hut and unloaded his car of varying sized boxes. The beavers were getting excited. Ian was here to show us some creepy crawlies. The beavers gathered around the table and Ian showed them about six different types of African Land Snails varying in size. We all stood quietly and the snails started to come out of their shell. We were also allowed to hold one of the large snails. Most beavers took up this challenge.

Ian then showed us different types of cock roaches, even a hissing one.

“What else have got?” asked one of the beavers. “Have you got any spiders?”

Ian took it all in his stride and bought out many types of stick insects. Some were very small, one could fly and a very large one. He had hatchlings from that day. It was amazing. I don’t think any of us realised you could get so many different types.

“Have you got any spiders?” they asked again.

Ian then bought out a baby tarantula, which was no bigger than my finger nail. I move back a few paces. He then proceeded to get out further tarantulas growing in size. One was about 18 months old and fitted on your hand. They take about 10 years to be fully grown and live for about 20 years. Some of the beavers and adults braved holding it. Some, including myself declined the offer.

It was past 7.30pm and the beavers were still excited about what he still might have to show them.

The last creature out of the box was a scorpion. There were wows from the beavers, what a great end to a fantastic evening.