GRAY – Although National Endangered Species Day is on Friday, May 16, the Maine Wildlife Park will celebrate the national event on Saturday, May 17, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the park on Route 26 in Gray.

Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and everyday actions they can take to help protect them. Started in 2006 by the U.S. Congress, Endangered Species Day is a celebration of the nation’s wildlife and wild places. The wildlife park is home to eight different Maine species that are listed as either endangered, threatened or of special concern. The bald eagle, another species at the park that was formerly listed as endangered, is now happily “delisted,” because its population has made such a tremendous comeback in Maine and across the U.S. Join the Endangered Species Coalition and the Alaska Wilderness League to learn more about the importance of protecting more than 50 different species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish listed as endangered or threatened in Maine.

A special guest will include the Alaska Wilderness League’s Polar Bear Mascot, who will be available for photo opportunities with kids at several times during the three-hour exhibit.

There will be endangered species activities, coloring books, posters, masks and kites that the kids can “make and take” home with them. Regular admission fees apply.