(by Lucy Murayda)
Join us for World Snake Week (July 13-19) as we celebrate the fascinating and essential role snakes play in New Hampshire’s ecosystems! Our state is home to 11 native snake species. Most are non-venomous and help naturally control rodent populations. Even the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus), New Hampshire’s only venomous snake, is critically endangered and extremely shy, rarely encountered in the wild!
Some of our native snakes include:
– Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
– Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon)
– Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
During World Snake Week, stop by the McLane or Massabesic Centers to meet one of our beloved Ball Pythons (Python regius) – gentle educational animal ambassadors who have helped countless visitors overcome fear and develop a new appreciation for snakes. You might even spot them outside in the gardens enjoying enrichment time in the grass with our Animal Care Specialists!
While you’re here, come inside to our Nature Lab and explore real snake sheds and fun snake-themed activities! NH Audubon’s McLane Center (Concord) and Massabesic Center (Auburn) are open Wednesday–Saturday, 11am–5pm.