New Museum Exhibits Feature Sailing and Pets

Ventura County children can pretend they are sailing and navigating by the stars at a new exhibit at the Gull Wings Children’s Museum in Oxnard.

“Navigating by the Stars” is a remodel of the museum’s Galaxy Room and is painted to simulate the inside of a ship. It includes a replica ship’s wheel built by master toy maker Gene West.

Meanwhile, the new “Tribute” exhibit features a giant mural of the American flag decorated with photos and letters from local and federal lawmakers. It also features a flag donated by Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley), which was flown over the nation’s Capitol.

Another new display is the Pet Corner, which includes an iguana, an ornate box turtle, a rough green snake, a rat, a guinea pig and several lizards and tree frogs. The display also showcases the museum matriarch, Marble the tarantula.

The hope is that the exhibit will teach children without pets how to care for, handle and nurture nature’s creatures.

Gull Wings is a hands-on museum for children ages 2 to 12. In addition to the exhibits, youngsters can make crafts and paint at the different art centers.

The museum, which charges a $3.50 entrance fee, is at 418 West 4th St. and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 483-3005.