March Break Event at Museum of Natural History

This March break, take a journey to the Amazon rainforest at the Museum of Natural History in Halifax.

The museum's rainforest comes alive with monkeys, macaw parrots and other exotic creatures from the Magnetic Hill Zoo. Visitors also have the chance to observe the deadly boa constrictor, which is kept safely behind glass. There are other curious items too.

"The Amazon rainforest is a land of 50-metre (160-foot) trees, magnificent waterfalls and a diversity of life beneath a canopy of tree tops," said Andrew Hebda, museum zoologist. "We've introduced a few of those elements to give our visitors a sense of the uniqueness of the rainforest."

The rainforest heats up with daily performances of Letitia's Amazon Odyssey, performed by the Neptune Theatre school. With their blend of high energy and audience participation, these players take the audience on an expedition to the heart of the rainforest.

Children will hear the sounds of baby chicks hatching in the farm safari and see adorable baby animals courtesy of the 4-H club. Exotic lizards, snakes and turtles will also make a special appearance.

"Amazon Rainforest promises to be an experience the whole family will enjoy," said Stephen Archibald, manager of interpretation. "In fact, year after year the Museum of Natural History has proven to be one of the most popular March break destinations in metro."

This event was created in partnership with the Magnetic Hill Zoo in Moncton, Hants County 4-H club, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Nova Scotia Herpetoculture Society and the Neptune Theatre school.

Amazon Rainforest appears at the Museum of Natural History from March 9 through 17. The Museum of Natural History is located on 1747 Summer St., Halifax. Call 902-424-7353 for information.