Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park will host a lecture about snakes of the Florida Keys on Monday, Oct. 26.
U.S. Geological Survey biologist Matthew Metcalf is scheduled to discuss the animals’ cultural significance, address common myths and explain their role in the ecosystem. His presentation will also cover identification of more common snakes in the Keys and conservation issues involving the federally threatened Eastern indigo snake and the invasive Burmese python.
The program is the ninth installment of the 35th annual “A Delicate Balance of Nature” lecture series. It will be held in the visitor center and aquarium building at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, 102601 Overseas Highway in Key Largo.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a pre-lecture reception provided by the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, with the talk beginning at 7:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring a cushion; the auditorium is wheelchair accessible. Because temperatures may vary inside, organizers suggest a sweater or light jacket and ask visitors not to wear fragrances or scented products for chemically sensitive attendees.
A Zoom viewing option will be available through the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park’s Facebook page and PennekampParkFriends.org. Visitors seeking additional accommodations can contact park services specialist Elena Muratori at 305-676-3786 in advance.
