PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Wild animals were spotted today at Children’s Hospital. The python, skunk and alligator are all part of a show presented by Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

“They get their name ball python because when she feels threatened, she’s going to curl herself into a little ball,” said wildlife supervisor Melody Varney, as the snake coils around her hands.

She has teamed up with fellow Nemacolin employees, for what has become an annual animal show.

“It’s really informational,” Varney says. “Tell them about the animals. And really, we come to give back to the community, and give the kids something to smile about.”

There is no shortage of smiles, as kids decked out in safari hats cling to stuffed animals inspired by Prince Nemacolin, a white lion who resides at the Farmington resort.

Others have their faces painted for “safari” photographs.

The wild animal show is a chance to forget about needles and medicine and the other necessary unpleasantness of a hospital stay.

As with many residents of western Pennsylvania, Nemacolin employees have a strong connection with Children’s Hospital.

“They are in love with it,” says marketing director Julie King. “And after we were here last year, it was something that touched every one of us. And we knew we have to come back and do it again.”

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