Teddy bears roam free at Space Farms

SUSSEX — While Goliath is still king of the bear species world wide and at Space Farms Zoo, on Aug. 18, teddy bears will take over the zoo. Teddy Bear Day is an annual event at Space Farms to celebrate the arrival of Goliath from Alaska in 1969. “Goliath is still amazing to folks. Many visitors have remarked, ‘I was at Space Farms when Goliath was alive,’ “ says Fred Space, proudly. “We celebrate him every year with this special day, free for kids who bring a teddy bear to the zoo.“ Goliath still holds the Guinness Book World Record for the largest bear. While bears grow the fastest in their first five to 10 years, bears’ bones and bodies continue to grow according to the diet available. Goliath’s basic diet of protein and vegetables was supplemented with calcium from the soft ice cream at the zoo. This enabled his bones to grow and support the behemoth musculature derived from his natural diet of venison and veggies, according to Space. On Teddy Bear Day, any child who brings a teddy bear to Space Farms Zoo and Museum receives free admission to the zoo (when accompanied by an adult). This special day dedicated to bears will feature a teddy bear magic show by Westcraft and a teddy bear contest with prizes for children. A special presentation for kids of all ages will be given on native black bear safety. Space Farms is located on Route 519 in Sussex and is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Oct. 31. Admission is $12.45 per adult, $11.45 per senior, and $8 per child (without a Teddy Bear on Teddy Bear Day). Family season passes are available. For more information, call 973-875-5800 or visit the Web site www.spacefarms.com.