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"Endearing" might not be the first thought that comes to mind when considering an amazingly realistic 23-foot-long replica of a Nile crocodile, but that's the feeling you walk away with after visiting the New York Hall of Science's new exhibit, "Reptiles: Real and Robotic."
Which is exactly the point. Watching this huge, scaly creature open and close its jaws while gently using her tongue to transport her young, affection replaces the fear that we normally have for crocodiles. And, of course, the fact that it's made of foam rubber helps, too.
Strangely, in the case of these creatures, bigger is better.
The exaggeratedly sized reptiles in this fun, interactive exhibit should help children and parents gain a better understanding and respect for the creatures, says Marcia Rudy, the hall's director of public programs and special events.
"There's an appreciation when the anatomy is scaled up in size; you can see how they function more clearly," says Rudy, who...