Zoo at Forest Park has new features

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor

SPRINGFIELD Max is just like any other seven-week old he makes little noises and he likes attention.

Max is the newest attraction at the Zoo at Forest Park: a baby dromedary (on-hump) camel.

Allison Summers, the zoo's education and volunteer coordinator, said that, unlike many of the zoo's other residents who flock to the fence seeking a snack, Max doesn't care for the crackers the zoos sells to visitors.

"He just likes a good rub-down," she said.

At seven weeks, Max is six feet in height with his long neck. . With his soft brown fur, he seems ideal for petting.

The zoo has another camel on exhibit, a rare two-humped or Bactrian camel on loan from Tragellys Fiber Farm in Hawley. Summers said the Bactrian camels are brushed for their wool, which can be made into cloth.

Also new at the zoo is "The Outback," an exhibit that features animals from Australia and includes emu, wallabies, and red kangaroos.

For now through though mid-November the zoo will be open only on weekend from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.. Summers said the staff is at the zoo through the winter and will open the gates in good weather. A message is left on the zoo's answering machine if the zoo is open.

Summers said the zoo will be hosting two special events in the next few weeks. "Party with Radio Disney" will take place Oct. 21 from noon to 2 p.m. Children are invited to dress up in costume and join the Radio Disney Street Team for games, music, costume contests and more.

"Boo at the Zoo" will be Oct. 28 from noon to 2 p.m. Dress up in your favorite costume to enjoy this annual Halloween festival. There will be trick-or-treating, crafts, snacks, hot drinks and more.

The cost of each event includes zoo admission and is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and children ages five through 12. Children from ages one through four are $2.50. There is no charge for zoo members or infants. No coupons or special passes will be accepted.