New in town
Many people have seen a mini horse. But do you know what an Asian Palm Civet is?
You’ll have to come to the Nature Park to find out after the Shell Factory and Nature Park added these two new residents to its growing population of more than 380 animals.
And as is standard practice, the public will have the ultimate decision in naming the civet, with prizes being awarded to the winner.
It’s all part of the rapid growth the park has seen in the past few months which will include a renovation of the Nature Park, according to marketing director Rick Tupper.
Jason, the mini horse, will make the Nature Park petting farm home. Jason was donated to The Nature Park after his owners no longer had room for him to roam.
“He kept getting away from his owners, so they wanted him somewhere where he could be around children,” Tupper said. “He’s great with kids.”
He will be housed at the petting farm, which offers children a great up close and personal experience with animals of all species.
The Nature Park also has acquired an Asian Palm Civet, an exotic animal found throughout the jungles of Asia. While they resemble cats, they are more closely related to small carnivores such as weasels and mongooses.
“Its claim to fame is it produces an exotic coffee with its droppings. It’s really expensive,” Tupper said. “We’re starting to bring in animals nobody has seen before.”
To welcome this resident, The Nature Park is having a naming contest, with the winner announced after the GoldenFest event on Oct. 4 at Dog Bones Restaurant.
The winner will receive a one-year family pass to the Nature Park, four free rides on the popular Soaring Eagle Zip Line, and a $100 gift certificate to Capt’ n Fishbones Seafood and Grill.
Names can be submitted at The Nature Park and retail store.
Tupper said the Nature Park, which has seen revenues and attendance increase 15 and 32 percent, respectively, is in the process of renovation, as new fencing and enclosures are being constructed.
The Shell Factory dubs itself “the No. 1 family entertainment destination in Southwest Florida.” It offers educational family exhibits, such as the Nature Park, family attractions, several free museums, and numerous shops and eating establishments.
The attraction is at 2787 North Tamiami Trail North Fort Myers.