Rattlesnake Awareness, Safety Class Offered

Contact: Frank Lundburg, (208) 853-9008 or (208) 571-6231 What to do when encountering rattlesnakes and other native snakes in the wild will be the subject of a special presentation Sunday, September 26 at the MK Nature Center in Boise. Wildlife educator Frank Lundburg will present two programs with the help of Idaho native snakes, including rattlesnakes, at 1:30 and 3 p.m. at the Nature Center located at 600 South Walnut. Because the presentation includes live animals, seating is limited and on a first-come, first served basis. To offset expenses, an entrance fee of $3 per person will be charged. The program will include discussion of Idaho native snakes, identification of selected native snakes including the western rattlesnake, tips on avoiding "accidents" and discussion of habitat, venom and snakebite. The program includes a "hands-on" experience. Lundburg educates the public on topics such as the care and safe handling of reptiles as well as the natural history of the animals. Doors will be open at 11 a.m. on September 26 at the Nature Center so visitors can enjoy other center displays. Outdoor exhibits, open sunrise to sunset, include a stream and pond with native fish and wildlife. The Nature Center is well known for its large glass windows that offer an underwater view of large trout and other fish.