Loads of Fun at the Biosphere This Winter!
MONTRÉAL, Que. -- January 18, 2012 -- The Biosphere, Environment Museum, is inviting families to participate in fun, educational and free activities being held over eight weekends, from January 21 to March 11, 2012, and during the spring break, from March 5 to 9. Presented as part of the Parc Jean-Drapeau winter program, the Biosphere's Wild about Nature programming offers indoor and outdoor activities, all on nature themes.
"With its Wild about Nature programming, the Biosphere is the perfect place to go to learn more about the behaviours of urban wildlife in winter and appreciate its diversity," said the Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of the Environment.
The Wild Side of Winter Outdoor Rally
Equipped with binoculars and accompanied by a naturalist, young adventurers head out on an adventure to discover animal life in winter. The first of the three stages in this educational rally involves finding clues indicating the presence of animals around the Biosphere. These young people will also learn the various tricks used by hummingbirds, groundhogs, raccoons, grey squirrels and bullfrogs to survive the winter. At the end of the expedition, their skills will be tested in a mini-treasure hunt.
If there is enough snow, the rally can be done on snowshoes (provided by the Biosphere). Otherwise, it will take place on foot. The French activity will start at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and the English one at 12:00 and 2:30 p.m.
Indoor Activities
The short animated features All Nothing and Illusion, directed by Frédéric Back and produced by Radio-Canada, will play on a loop, along with La colère des bois by Productions du beau joual vert. Young people can enjoy building inukshuks and being photographed in a kayak, wearing a survival vest, with images of the Arctic in the background. Visitors can buy warm drinks and delicious homemade waffles and use a rest area.
At dusk, the Biosphere will be illuminated by multiple colours offering a pleasant outside view of this iconic building.
During this entire programming period, visitors must still pay admission to see the museum's exhibition rooms. However, it should be remembered that visitors age 17 and under can come to the Biosphere for free at any time (organized groups excepted).
As an environment museum, Environment Canada's Biosphere is mandated to encourage everyone to take environmental action. In addition to presenting exhibitions and special events, the Biosphere develops educational and awareness products for various clienteles across Canada and is a recognized forum for exchanges on the environment.
For more information, contact:
Media Relations
Environment Canada
819-934-8008
