Snake Research Field Lab

Kick off the day at a local reptile facility in Weston, where you’ll get up close with South Florida’s reptiles through hands-on demos. You’ll watch live alligator demos, safely touch and hold smaller alligators, and handle some captive snakes. Plus, you’ll learn snake anatomy, behavior, and how to identify common South Florida species — including their scientific names. After that, join biologists for a real Everglades field survey from 6:30 to 10:30 PM. You’ll learn how to spot, identify, and document wild snakes using techniques like visual encounter surveys and road-cruising. You’ll also get hands-on with tools like a Kestrel weather meter, practice habitat classification, and complete scientific field data sheets. This survey is conducted under permit. It’s a great chance to experience what it’s like to be a field herpetologist and learn ethical wildlife research firsthand! Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tips are encouraged for the Sawgrass staff and guides. The venue loctation is Sawgrass Recreation Park.