FORT WALTON BEACH — Curious kids and families came out Saturday to meet birds, guinea pigs, and other reptiles during the latest of Citizen Science Saturdays at the Emerald Coast Science Center.

“We want to teach adults and their kids on how to take care of a pet so the animals can be healthy and happy,” said Melanie Rochat, the center’s community science coordinator.

Rochat said all animals deserve the care and proper diet just as a child does.

“It is a real commitment and a pet needs a lot of care and love,” she said.

Check out photos from the event>>

Sean Rushford was on hand to celebrate his 9th birthday with his friends.

“It’s so much fun here and there is a lot of things to do,” he said.

Sean’s mother, Christine, said the Science Center is perfect for a birthday party because the staff takes care of everything and entertains the kids with lots of activities.

“We like spending time here anyway, and when I told him (Sean), he was all excited,” she said.

Sean’s birthday party had a “Mad Scientist” theme. He and his friends had fun doing scientific experiments.

Check out a video of the event>>

“This place teaches us a lot of cool stuff and I think my friends really like it a lot here,” he said.

Rochat said she is planning a weather preparedness event for next month’s Citizens Science Saturdays.