(COLUMBIA, MO) -
Columbia Parks and Recreation Department is lightheartedly alerting citizens to be on the lookout for a variety of new hybrid animals (a.k.a. CoMo Eclipse Critters). It has been determined that the recent solar eclipse and Columbia's location in the direct path of totality is directly responsible for their existence.
Columbia trail users are encouraged to get out, explore the Columbia trail system and help find a limited number of CoMo Eclipse Critters located along trails, through the end of September. If found, park officials encourage trail users to "capture" the critter and transport them to the Parks and Recreation office at 1 S. Seventh St., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Ownership and a certificate of authenticity will be transferred to the new guardian.
The hybrid animals appear to have features associated with nocturnal and diurnal species. During a total eclipse, the sky darkens to twilight levels and air temperatures drop causing animals to change their behaviors. "It's as if two animal worlds merged during the darkness of totality," according to one eclipse-chaser and local conservation biologist who asked to remain anonymous. Recent investigations have found that the hybrid animals appear to be nomadic in nature, preferring a linear park-like habitat.
Reports of unusual animal reactions to solar eclipses date back centuries. Anecdotal evidence indicates the wandering nature of the CoMo Eclipse Critter is limited to established trail corridors bordered by picturesque creeks and open spaces. An increased presence on the trails and keen observation skills are probably the best tips for spotting the elusive CoMo Eclipse Critters. According to park officials, "If you really want to find one of the critters, you have to spend a lot of time trailside to observe their movement pattern." CoMo Eclipse Critters are not considered dangerous as they are thought to be a relative of the unicorn.
For more information, visit CoMo.gov/ParksandRec/ (search box: type CoMo Eclipse Critters) or follow the alerts on Facebook and Twitter at CoMoParksandRec.
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