May 14, 2010

Dragons to make their home at Explorit!
By Derek A. Woller

Beware all ye who enter Explorit Science Center because there (will soon) be dragons dwelling here! Well, bearded dragons, that is. What exactly is a bearded dragon, you ask? First and foremost, it is a reptile found in Australia in deserts and semi-arid scrub regions. There are many different species of these animals, but the most common one found in science centers, zoos, and homes is known as Pogona vitticeps, or the inland bearded dragon.

The 'dragon' part of the name primarily refers to their fierce appearance as they are covered in modified scales that resemble sharp spikes (but, which, are actually quite the opposite) and they can grow fairly large-up to 22 inches, which includes their long tail. The 'bearded' portion of their name makes reference to the large section of scales below their mouth that can puff out when they feel threatened. When fully inflated, this section of modified scales strongly resembles a human's beard, especially when it changes color, usually from a light coloration to a dark coloration.

Sometime in the near future two adult bearded dragons, named Spike and Isa, will be making their home at Explorit Science Center. They come from the Metzger family. The family, who are frequent Explorit visitors, saw how well the other Explorit animals are cared for and decided to ask if Explorit would be willing to adopt their dragons.

After a veterinary visit and an enclosure upgrade-to be purchased with a grant received from the Glide Foundation-Spike and Isa will soon be making their debut at the Science Center. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, here are some upcoming Explorit events:

• Tuesday, May 18: Free Admission Day courtesy of the Kelly Foundation.


• Tuesday, May 18: Cardiologist Dr. Kathy Glatter of Woodland Healthcare will present tips and tricks on how to make 'smart heart' decisions. This "Heart Healthy" seminar will be held at the Mori Seiki Lecture Hall, 3805 Faraday Avenue, 6:00 - 7:00p.m. Tickets are $20 and are available to be purchased at the door to support the Save Explorit Campaign.


• Wednesday, May 19: Explorit at the Davis Farmer's Market courtesy of Woodland Healthcare. Come out and see a hands-on activity station about muscles!


• Help Explorit Win $1,500! Explorit is one of three finalists in the Yolo Federal Credit Union "Give A Click" Program. Each quarter the Credit Union awards $1,500 to a deserving non-profit or cooperative within the community. One vote from an IP address is allowed until June 15, and the organization that receives the most online votes will receive the donation. To vote, visit http://www.yolofcu.org/promotions.htm?yolotabs=2 Thank you for your support!


• Friday, June 4: Annual Member Appreciation Event from 6-8pm for Explorit members and special guests at 2801 2nd Street. Please join us for our family-friendly event where you can:
• --Experience the new "Take Matter Into Your Own Hands" exhibition
• --Meet our Summer Science Camp education staff
• --Enjoy pizza courtesy of Woodstock's Pizza
• --Receive a 10% discount on new membership and renewals.
RSVP to lindsay@explorit.org by June 1st with the number of guests who plan on attending.

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Currently, Explorit Science Center has two exhibitions on display: "Move It! Science in Action" and "Wild Planet." Admission is $4 general, free for teachers and ages 3 and under. The museum is open to school groups by reservation and to the general public from 10 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Tuesday and 11 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Explorit is at 2801 Second Street, Davis. For more information: (530) 756-0191 or www.explorit.org.