ARIZONA STATE PARKS: For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona’s natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partners. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997. Contact by Email: pio(at)azstateparks.gov
(Phoenix, AZ - August 10, 2009) - Bug Fest 2009 at Oracle State Park, Center for Environmental Education, begins at 6pm on Friday, August 21st and continues through 12noon on Saturday, August 22nd.
Southeastern Arizona is home to some of the most spectacular insects in North America. Oracle State Park is on the boundary between the highlands of the Catalina Mountains and mesquite grasslands and has an especially rich insect fauna. Some of the bugs you may have a chance to see include large moths, impressive beetles, katydids, tarantulas, and other nocturnal creatures.
On Friday, August 21st, learn about scorpions with Casey Egan. This is followed by a slide presentation with Entomologist Michael Wilson at 7pm. Bring a flashlight to see which night bugs will be attracted to blacklit sheets. A limited camping option for this special night of outdoor education is available. To reserve a space, call the park at (520) 896-2425.
On Saturday, August 22nd, starting at 8am, join a butterfly walk led by Marceline VandeWater. A bee presentation will begin at 9:30am with beekeeper Fred Terry.
Bring your own refreshments or drinking water. Long pants are best. Come prepared with insect repellant for mosquitoes. Closed-toe shoes (sneakers, tennis shoes, etc.) are better than sandals or flip-flops. Meet at the Kannally Ranch House. Reservations are suggested for both days, call (520) 896-2425. There is a $5/car fee for each day.
About your bug guides-Michael Wilson is Research Director of Drylands Institute, a Tucson non-profit organization, devoted to research on the Sonoran Desert. Wilson has traveled to many places to study insects and is a specialist on Arizona bugs. Fred Terry is a local beekeeper and balladeer. Casey Egan has collected and sold scorpions, while also being a 5th grade science teacher. Marceline VandeWater is an active member of the Central Arizona Butterfly Association (CAzBA.org).
For more information call Oracle State Park at (520) 896-2425. Oracle State Park is located approximately 45 minutes from Tucson, in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in the community of Oracle in southern Pinal County.
For more information about the 30 State Parks, statewide hiking opportunities, off-highway vehicle trails, and other outdoor recreational and cultural opportunities in Arizona, call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit AZStateParks.com. Follow us on twitter.com/AZStateParks.
-end-
Learn More About Oracle State Park 
link to this page:
http://azstateparks.com/press/2009/PR_08-10-09.html
[Skip] Home Find a Park Arizona Map
PDF Documents Require Adobe Reader
Read External Link Disclaimer