NYPA wildlife fest returning Saturday
MASSENA — Hawkins Point Visitors Center will look like a miniature zoo once again this weekend, with exotic animals on display at the New York Power Authority's annual Wildlife Festival.
The event, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday in honor of National Hunting and Fishing Day, will include animals from the World of Wildlife and Educational Encounters and the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park, rehabilitated birds of prey and a petting zoo.
"I like that we are able to bring places like (these) together because there aren't many places like that that are accessible," said Karen L.White, NYPA community relations associate. "We are going to have a lot of exotic animals, fishing, a petting zoo."
Because the animals have to travel to get to the event, Ms. White was uncertain which species would be coming. Handlers decide what they'll bring based on which animals are in a good mood, she said.
There is talk of a binturong making an appearance — a "bearcat" that smells like popcorn — as well as micro pigs, reptiles and a coatimundi, which is a member of the raccoon family. Jerry and Mary Benvenuto, from Reptiles Forever, will return to the event for another year with some of their reptiles and insects, including a 50-pound turtle and a python. Stories and information about each animal will be presented to audiences. The St. Lawrence River Walleye Association will provide poles and bait to people interested in fishing in the river.
The Wildlife Festival used to be held at the St. Lawrence-FDR power dam, but after Sept. 11, 2001, that venue could not be used because of enhanced security. Last year was the first time it was held since the attacks.
More than 1,000 people came last year and Ms.White said she is hoping for another good turnout, though she admitted that bad weather might keep people away.
In addition to the animals, there will be crafts for children, wagon rides and vendors, including Traditional Arts in Upstate New York. The visitors center will be open for people to see the exhibits about the dam and power project.
"The event is really structured so that people can come any time between ten and four and wander around," Ms.White said. "You don't get to see animals like this often."
