March 22, 2005 - "Froggy Friday" at the Oxbow Eco-Center

What might jump down the moonlit trail just ahead? Who serenades you at midnight with a song in his heart and a "Ribbit" in his chest? To find out, don't miss our Froggy Friday! This Friday, March 25th the Oxbow will host its monthly night-time event, Eco-Friday, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Ray Goushaw, Herpetologist with the St. Lucie Regional Herpetological Society, will give an enlightening program about our Fabulous Florida Frogs. After a lively amphibian show, Goushaw will lead visitors on a hike in search of some of these nocturnal creatures.

Goushaw brings a great variety of Florida Frogs to his programs.In addition, he will be bringing some Florida snake species. It's sure to be a fun and educational evening where participants learn about how these animals are a vital part of our Florida ecosystem.

Raymond Goushaw has worked with reptiles and amphibians for over 30 years and is owner of Herptelogical Breeding Research.He attended George Mason University specializing in Herpetology and Carnivorous plants.Mr. Goushaw dedicates his time to educating the public about the important role reptiles and amphibians play in Florida's unique ecosystems, in addition to the responsibilities of pet ownership and the practices that are detrimental to the continued survival of those species.

Participants are encouraged to bring flashlights as long as they have a red lens or translucent red tape or tissue paper over the white lens. This serves to protect everyone's night vision during the hike. Eco-Fridays are free and open to the public. Reservations are only necessary for large groups (8 or more). For more information call Heidi Vestrem at (772) 785-5842 or send an e-mail to vestremh@stlucieco.gov.

Oxbow Eco-Center, St. Lucie County's premiere Environmental Learning Center, is situated on 220 acres of land on the St. Lucie River. The Oxbow is located at 5400 N.E. St. James Drive/25th Street, approximately two miles south of Midway Road, across the street from the Publix plaza. For more information about our numerous programs available, call 772-785-5833.