FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Rude, Lee County Parks & Recreation
              (239) 432-2042

NOV. 13 BORN TO BE WILD EVENT TEACHES ABOUT OUTDOORS

FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 3, 2004) - Lee County Parks & Recreation and the Friends of the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve are hosting the annual "Born to be WILD!" event Saturday, November 13.

The day of activities and learning about local animals and plants will be from noon to 4 p.m. at the Slough, located at Penzance Blvd. along Six Mile Cypress Parkway, between Colonial Blvd. and Daniels Parkway; Exit #131 off I-75.

The Slough (pronounced "slew") is a beautiful wetlands preserve in Lee County. It has over a mile of elevated boardwalk trail with five observation decks for viewing wildlife. Walking through this lush ecosystem one can observe an amazing variety of native plants and animals.

The "Born to be WILD!" event will show visitors the adaptations animals and plants have to live in this type of habitat. This day of fun and discovery will feature live animals and animal displays that include: baby panthers and a skunk from Felids and Friends, an owl from Calusa Nature Center, a baby alligator from Babcock Ranch, and others as well as some fascinating native plants.

Also, glimpse into the past with Chet Newcomb from Kissimmee State Park. He humorously tells tales of his "life" living as a Cow hunter from his camp along the trail.

The amphitheater will have a range of hands-on activities like stamp art, face painting, hands-on artifacts, and palm weaving. Create something to take home!

Volunteer naturalists will be along the boardwalk trail and available to point out wildlife and answer questions. It will be a fun and educational day for all ages!

$5.00/vehicle program fee For information call: (239) 432-2004