New snake exhibit coming to Gastonia museum

“Snakes of the Carolinas” set to debut at The Schiele Museum.

A copperhead snake slithers over a branch in a herpaquarium.

The eastern copperhead is one of six venomous species of snakes native to North Carolina.

Photo by CLTtoday

The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia will soon unveil a slithery, new exhibit — “Friends, Not Foes: Snakes of the Carolinas.” This upcoming attraction will showcase snakes native to the Carolinas — including the DeKay’s brown snake, corn snake, pine snake, and eastern king snake.

“Snakes are not as scary as they seem,” said Morgan Lyons, the Schiele’s Head of Living Collections. “They are more beneficial than harmful for the environment and for people too!” The new exhibit will emphasize the role of snakes as predators of pests + identify common snake misconceptions.

Visitors are invited to meet the snakes and tour their habitats during Reptile and Amphibian Day on Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The museum will offer hands-on activities, special presentations, and animal interactions.

Discounted advance tickets are now available or can be purchased at the door on the day of the event for $15 per person.

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