The Reptile and Amphibian Weekend will be hosted by the Virginia Living Museum, Newport News, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
RAAW promises an immersive experience, offering the chance to get up close with a diverse range of native and exotic reptiles and amphibians, a museum release said. It will include live animal demonstrations to exhibits by guest experts.
Hands-on activities, craft sessions, and planetarium shows are scheduled throughout the weekend. Highlights will include performances by Rainbow Puppets: Reptiles & More!; Artfully Yours face-painting; and feeding sessions featuring alligators, gila monsters, turtles, and snakes. A detailed schedule of events can be found at theVLM.org.
Also offered is a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s Herpetology Department, providing insights into the care and conservation of reptiles and amphibians. While general museum admission grants access to most activities, planetarium shows and behind-the-scenes tours require separate tickets.
For more information, including ticket information, visit theVLM.org or contact the Museum at 757-595-1900.
Free lecture
To complement RAAW, the Virginia Living Museum will host a related free public lecture from 6:30-7:30 tonight, Thursday, March 21, as part of its Naturally Speaking lecture series. Dr. Matthias Leu will lead a discussion on the critical issue of amphibian decline globally, focusing on ongoing research efforts in the Virginia Peninsula region. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the importance of studying amphibian habitats and behaviors for conservation efforts.
Prior to the lecture, student researchers will showcase their findings in local herpetology research through engaging poster presentations. This provides a unique opportunity for interaction and learning, emphasizing the significance of protecting amphibian species. The lecture is open to the public, with doors opening at 6.
To register for the lecture, visit https://thevlm.org/education/adults/
Located at 524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, the museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.