MDC offers free program on snakes Aug. 26 in St. Joseph

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News from the region
Northwest
Published Date
08/17/2021
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St. Joseph, Mo. – Snakes are quite common in towns and the country, yet often unfairly feared. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a free program about Missouri snakes from 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 26, at the Krug Park Castle in St. Joseph.

Missouri has 49 species or sub-species of snakes. Most are harmless to people and helpful in controlling pests such as rodents. This program will focus on snakes common to the northwest region. The region has forests, woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands, and that variety allows for a diversity of snakes.

“The program will focus on what makes snakes unique,” said Shelby Smith, MDC naturalist. “We’ll look at their unique adaptations including their skin, eyes, nose, and tongues. We will also be talking about the things that make them similar to us as well. We will bring two live snakes to observe as well.”

This program is for all ages. COVID-19 precautions will be followed. Registration is required. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZrF.