Salamanders get the spotlight during natural sciences museum's virtual reptile and amphibian event
Did you know that North Carolina has 64 distinct species of salamander, more than any other state in the country. And, the state is among the most salamander-rich areas in the world?
Those are the kind of fun facts you'll learn during the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences' 26th annual Reptile and Amphibian Day, which will be held virtually this year from March 8 to March 13. The annual event is the nation’s largest and most popular event dedicated to hopping, slithering and crawling critters, according to the museum. The 2021 program will feature salamanders and includes six days of virtual programming, from kids’ crafts to presentations to close encounters of the herpetological kind, according to the museum. Programs are designed for all ages.
Highlights include:
- “Snakes of Raleigh” — Do snakes have bones? What do snakes eat? What should you do if you see a snake? Join us to learn what you can do to attract or deter snakes from living in your yard and how to identify the most commonly seen snakes in Raleigh, NC.
- “Frog Songs of NC” — Warmer temperatures are bringing out the frogs. Tune in to find out how to identify them by their calls.
- “Window on Animal Health Live!” — Join the museum's veterinary staff LIVE, virtually, at the Museum’s Window on Animal Health as they perform checkups and wellness exams on our beautiful emerald tree boas!
- “Science Tonight: Tortoises” — Meet Amanda Hipps, a wildlife biologist and science communicator who has conducted research and helped people appreciate the importance and value of conserving landscapes from Madagascar to Florida.
- “Salamander Stories” — From struggling student to passionate wildlife biologist, hear how Kabryn Mattison’s life journey changed when she discovered the wonder of salamanders. Learn about special species from NC and why they matter.
More information is on the museum's website.
