Page "Beatrix Potter" Paragraph 8

In their school room Beatrix and Bertram kept a variety of small pets, mice, rabbits, a hedgehog, some bats along with collections of butterflies and other insects which they drew and studied.

There is no evidence to support claims that any of these creatures were mistreated, or that the motive for their study was anything more sinister than natural curiosity and a desire to draw from life.

Quite the contrary, Beatrix was devoted to the care of her small animals, often taking them with her on long holidays.