Name the Emu birds at the Center for Science Teaching and Learning in Rockville Centre

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The Center for Science, Teaching and Learning in Rockville Centre is holding a naming contest for two young emu birds, which are part of its recently opened exhibit, “Dinosaurs! And People’s United Bank Animal Adventure.”

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 also travel great distances and sprint at about 31 miles per hour when necessary.

“Emus are a popular part of our new animal exhibition, but they need names,” said Dr. Ray Ann Havasy, director of CSTL. “We are calling upon our visitors and friends to submit their ideas for naming our two emus.”

The exhibit focuses on how animals and dinosaurs adapt to their environments, and it is the only one of its kind in Nassau County. Visitors can see museum quality dinosaur models, as well as 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.”

Visitors must submit their emu name suggestions in person at the exhibit with the proposed name written on the entry slip, along with their own name and contact information, between Sept. 1 and 30. Winners will be selected on Oct. 1 and asked to join Havasy at the attraction on Oct. 5 for a 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 and $12 for children under 10. Tickets can only be purchased on site. For special group rates and programs for special events, call (516) 764-0045 or email helpdesk@cstl.org. For more information about CSTL, visit www.cstl.org