2/28/05

April 9 is Turtle Day at Bass Lake
Crafts, Special Programs, Displays: All Part of Special Day

Yellow-bellied, chicken, snapping and box – all are unique turtle species found at Bass Lake Park. And, all will be celebrated during Turtle Day, April 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Bass Lake Park & Retreat Center.

“People always see turtles at the lake, but they don't know much about them,” said Park Manager Scott Barnard.

Barnard said that Turtle Day was a chance for locals of all ages to learn more about the different turtles at the park and about other types of turtles found in North Carolina. From a two-sided, truck-sized mobile aquarium containing freshwater fish from lakes and ponds, and from streams and rivers, to displays by nonprofit coastal turtle rescue groups, a number of Turtle Day exhibits will draw participants' attention.

Special programs about turtles also will be held throughout the day at the park.

A prime attraction for children will be the opportunity to paint a segment on the shell of a bigger-than-life-sized fiberglass turtle. The park will have five large fiberglass turtles available, each with more than a dozen shell segments for children to paint. After completion, the turtles will be displayed at various locations around Holly Springs.

“We want to create a buzz,” Barnard said. “Certain members of the turtle family are in decline due to habitat depletion. Turtles don't cross roads quickly. And, actually, eastern box turtles are on the verge of being endangered.”

For more information about Turtle Day, call Bass Lake Park at (919) 557-2496. Additional information also will be included in the town's April newsletter.

Town of Holly Springs - PO Box 8 - 128 South Main Street - Holly Springs, NC 27540 - (919) 552-6221 - Holly.Springs@hollyspringsnc.us