Even though Potter's parents left her mostly in the care of governesses and servants, they nevertheless exerted tight control over her life. She was educated at home and had virtually no contact with other children until her brother, Bertram, was born when she about five. But even he was soon sent to boarding school, which meant that their time together was limited mostly to the summer holidays, which the family typically spent in Scotland or the English Lake District.
Other than her brother, Potter's only friends were her animals. She had a deep interest in and love for all creatures and kept several as pets, including mice, frogs, bats, rabbits, and even a hedgehog. Her strong affinity for animals was not merely sentimental, however; she was a naturalist at heart, with a sharp eye for scientific detail. She enjoyed exploring the outdoors, especially during the summer when she and Bertram had the rare opportunity to roam around in relative freedom.
Artistic Bent Revealed in Childhood
Potter also displayed an early talent for drawing. Her own pets as well as the animals she discovered while on vacation were often the subjects of her illustrations. Her governesses encouraged her to practice her drawing, as did her parents, who harbored an interest in art and sometimes allowed their daughter to accompany them to exhibitions.
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