ASHEVILLE, NC – Everything poops, and The North Carolina Arboretum brings new meaning to doo doo during a new exhibit opening January 22, 2010 at the Baker Exhibit Center.
Fish do it, frogs do it, pythons, eagles and elephants do it, yet poop is one of those subjects we find difficult to talk about with a straight face. Children, however, are positively fascinated by it and we can learn a lot about an animal by examining what it leaves behind.
“The Scoop on Poop” is a new interactive zoological exhibit based on the popular book by science writer Dr. Wayne Lynch. The exhibit leads visitors on an investigation of what poop is and how animals use it – to build homes, hide from enemies, attract mates, send messages, cool off and yes, some even eat it! The exhibit also explores the ways veterinarians, paleontologists, field biologists, farmers, Maasai tribesmen, and power companies make use of animal waste.
“The Scoop on Poop,” created by Peeling Productions at Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland in Allenwood, PA, features large colorful graphic panels, three-dimensional models, and sturdy interactive components. Visitors are invited to:
- Listen to the fascination sounds of a bear’s digestive system;
- Learn the language of poop in countries around the world;
- Examine fecal samples in a veterinarian’s lab;
- Compete in dung beetle races and track wild animals by clues left in scat;
- Explore how long it takes an elephant to poop their body weight; and
- Meet a dinosaur dung detective.
“The Scoop on Poop” exhibit, which runs through May 9, 2010, treats the subject with a tactful blend of good science and fun.
The Baker Exhibit Center is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays from Noon to 5 p.m. Admission is in addition to the parking fee: $3 for adults, $2 dollars for children ages 5 to 18, members and children 4 and under free. School group exhibit admission $2 per child with or without additional guided program – adult chaperones are free – all groups must pre-register.
For more information, call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.
About
The mission of The North Carolina Arboretum is to cultivate connections between people and plants.
The North Carolina Arboretum is located next to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance at Milepost 393. From I-26, take Exit 33 and follow Blue Ridge Parkway signs for two miles to the entrance ramp. For parking fees and hours, please visit www.ncarboretum.org/plan-a-visit. No parking fee applies for NC Arboretum Society members. For information call 828-665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org
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Contact
John Bubany
828-665-2492
jbubany@ncarboretum.org
