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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Oak Mountain State Park’s Interpretive Center, home to interactive nature exhibits and educational programs, is asking the public for help this holiday season.

The Interpretive Center recently posted its Christmas list for the various critters and insects housed at the center.

“Dear Santa, The OMIC critters have finished their Christmas List,” read an official post by Oak Mountain State Park. “If you would like to help Santa make this Christmas perfect for our slithery and scaley friends at the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center you can purchase any of the items listed and bring them by the OMIC to place under their Christmas Tree.”

The items on the list are divided into three separate categories: produce, insects and miscellaneous. The produce includes cucumbers, carrots, apples, bananas, peaches, broccoli, strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, collard greens, cabbage and bell peppers.

Insects asked for include earthworms, feeder fish, wax worms, superworms, Dubia roaches and aquatic turtle pellets.

Needed miscellaneous items include pillowcases, towels, gift cards, cricket food, UVB bulbs and 100/150 watt basking heat bulbs.

Donations are welcome anytime from anyone, seven days a week, with some specific instructions for when the center is closed.

“Feel free to drop off your Christmas gifts for the Critters any day of the week,” read an official post by Oak Mountain State Park. “Just let the gate staff know you’re donating gifts, and they will waive your entrance fee. If the center is closed, there will be a Tupperware box at the door to keep your presents dry until we can place them under the tree.”

OMIC is also hosting a Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 14, where gifts can also be dropped off.