The Manatee Observation & Education Center and the St. Lucie County Extension Office presents "Creatures of the Night" at Adam's Ranch on Thursday, Oct. 22, starting at 6 p.m.

What comes out when the sun goes down? Find out in this unique educational opportunity!

During this one-of-a-kind event, Education Coordinator for the Manatee Center Lesley Vincent-Ryder and the University of Florida/St. Lucie County Extension Office's Ken Gioeli and Anita Neal will guide guests on a search for life after dark.

Natural Resources Agent Ken Gioeli will share his expert knowledge of bats before venturing out with bat detectors on a quest to discover these nocturnal creatures. Participants may even spot a bat through Gioeli's night-vision goggles. Horticultural Agent Anita Neal will be setting up insect collectors to teach participants about moths, spiders and more.

This spook-tacular evening will be held at Adam's Ranch in western St. Lucie County. Adam's Ranch began to take shape in South Florida in 1937. From that beginning, it has developed into one of the largest cattle ranching operations in the U.S. The family's management and conservation practices have been nationally recognized as being beneficial to our native wildlife and plants. Adam's Ranch is located 12 miles west of 1-95 on Orange Avenue in Fort Pierce. A map is available online at www.adamsranch.com.

Participants should wear long sleeve shirts, bug spray, and bring flashlights. Participants should be able to walk on dark unpaved roads and trails.

The cost is $15 per person. Pre-registration and payment is required. All participants must be 10 years of age or older and must sign a liability waiver. Spaces are limited to the first 25 paid registrants. Call Lesley (772) 466-1600 ext.3337 to register (phones are routed through FPUA).

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