A SLITHERING snake and a prickly pygmy hedgehog paid a visit to excited youngsters at a Wollaston nursery.

Tots from Ellie Bears on Kings Street, were introduced to a collection of creatures owned by Angie Blake, who runs Animal Antics, on Monday.

Other visitors included a tree frog, bearded dragon lizard, chinchilla, American box turtle and a burrowing owl.

Angie explained to the children how the animals defended themselves from predators, how they live and what they eat.

Some of the creatures were allowed to explore the nursery and the tree frog climbed up the wall to demonstrate how sticky the suckers are on his toes.

Nursery manager, Sheelagh Lake, said: "We thought having Angie in would be a valuable and educational experience for the children and give them the opportunity to learn about different kinds of animals."

Angie, who will be celebrating a decade in the business this year, added: "All of the children were asking questions about the animals and exploring the different textures that the animals bring when stroking and holding them all."

She is still brainstorming about how to celebrate her 10 year anniversary and is entertaining the idea of having a tea party for all of the animals.