An array of exotic and domestic animals, consisting of an African zebra, Dromedary camel, Shetland pony, miniature horse, Peruvian llama and 12 performing dogs drew a lot of attention yesterday in Tamaqua after word spread about their unexpected appearance in the South Ward section of town.

Matt Hope, who owns Hope's Towing and Collision, was dispatched to a broken down 30-foot motor home late Wednesday night along Interstate 81 south near McAdoo. Upon arriving, he was quick to notice a wide array of animals in the back of the 40-foot trailer being hauled by the motor home. The mobile home and trailer belonged to Laura Herriott and husband Fernando Ortiz, who operate the 'Laura Herriott's Animals Tales' show based out of Mabank, Texas. They were traveling to Sarasota, Fla. from a show in Messena, N.Y.Their show features a storybook animal revue which incorporates a unique mix of exotic and domestic animals performing in an entertaining and educational attraction.Offering his hospitality, Hope told the drivers they could park their motor home and trailer in his yard, which is located at the intersection of Coal and Van Gelder Street, while he acquired the parts needed to fix the motor home.Feeling further compassion for the couple and their animals inside the trailer, Hope, who was this year's Tamaqua Citizenship recipient, also allowed animals to graze on his grass.This drew the attention of hundreds of curious onlookers.Herriott added that all her animals, who perform together during many of the acts, serve as her family."I make sure they stay as comfortable as possible on long trips," said Herriott. "They all have a lot of room to lay down inside the large air-conditioned trailer.""It was very nice of them to allow us to visit and even pet the animals," said Stephanie Schappell of Tamaqua.Other residents also offered their hospitality, such as local resident Andy Miller, who offered his time to help the couple buy feed at a local farm store and M and I Deli, who donated food platters to the couple.Herriott said her family is a five generation circus family. Her great-grandfather, Pike Herriott, served as a cook with the "101 Ranch Real Wild West" show.In addition, her sister, Heidi Herriott, has her own television show called "Horse Trick" on the Rural Network and is head horse trainer at Arabian Nights."Everyone has been so kind and hospitable," said Herriott. "It is nice to be welcomed with open arms."