Press Release
Fla. Museum holds "Giant Squid" opening activities Saturday
For Immediate Release Sept 20, 2005
Contact:
Paul Ramey, Dir. of Marketing and Public Relations
Florida Museum of Natural History
(352) 846-2000, ext. 218, pramey@ufl.edu
PHOTOS AVAILABLE
GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- The Florida Museum of Natural History will present special activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday to celebrate the opening of its latest temporary exhibition "In Search of Giant Squid" which runs from Saturday (Sept. 24) through Jan. 2, 2006.
World-renowned marine biologist Clyde Roper will give a lecture on giant squid at 11 a.m., and throughout the day, visitors can discover the science and mystery behind these elusive giants through hands-on activities and exhibit explorations.
Based on the popular exhibit at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, "In Search of Giant Squid" aims to uncover the mysteries that surround the world's largest invertebrate, which can reach up to 60 feet long and weigh more than 1,000 pounds. Architeuthis, the giant squid, has been found in fishermen's nets, sperm whale bellies and on beaches all over the world when washed ashore, yet it has never been seen alive in its natural habitat.
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The Florida Museum of Natural History is Florida's state natural history museum, dedicated to understanding, preserving and interpreting biological diversity and cultural heritage. It is located near the intersection of Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road in the University of Florida Cultural Plaza in Gainesville. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The Florida Museum is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Butterfly Rainforest admission is $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for children ages 3-12. For more information, including directions and parking information, call (352) 846-2000, or visit the museum online, www.flmnh.ufl.edu.