The Center for Science Teaching & Learning, a not-for-profit organization with a mission of encouraging science learning and literacy, is holding a naming contest for two young emu birds which are part of its recently opened Dinosaurs! and People’s United Bank Animal Adventure located at their Tanglewood Preserve location, 1450 Tanglewood Road, in Rockville Centre.
The emu is the second-largest living bird by height, after its close relative, the ostrich. An Australian native, emus are soft-feathered, brown, flightless birds with long necks and legs, and can reach up to 6.2 feet in height. They can travel great distances, and when necessary, can sprint at about 31 mph.
The exhibit, which focuses on how animals and dinosaurs adapt to their environments, is the only one of its kind in Nassau County. Visitors to the exhibit can see museum quality dinosaur models in addition to a variety of live, wild animals, including emus, owls, golden pheasants, goats, alligators, lizards, turtles and frogs, along with a special exhibit, The World of Rabbits.
“Emus are a popular part of our new animal exhibition, but they need names. We are calling upon our visitors and friends to submit their ideas for naming our two emus,” said CSTL Director Ray Ann Havasy.
To enter suggestions, visitors must submit an entry card in person at the exhibit with the proposed name for one of the birds written on the entry slip along with their name and contact information between Sept. 1 and Sept. 30. Winners will be selected on Oct. 1 and asked to join Dr. Havasy at the attraction on Oct. 5 for the public announcement of the names. The winners will also have their photos on permanent display with the emus.
Dinosaurs! and People’s United Bank Animal Adventure is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children under 10. Tickets can only be purchased on site. For special group rates and programs for special events, birthday parties, camps trips and school field trips call 516-764-0045 or email helpdesk@cstl.org. For more information about CSTL, special events and Dinosaurs! and People’s United Bank Animal Adventure visit www.cstl.org.
Submitted by the Center for Science Teaching & Learning.
