Reptiles at Risk in Ontario

Why does the Snapping Turtle snap?

How did the Eastern Foxsnake get its name?

Does the Spiny Softshell Turtle really have a soft shell?

Does the Eastern Milksnake drink milk?

Find out the answers to these questions by booking a free Reptiles at Risk in Ontario presentation for your students this fall.

Turtles and Snakes!

This FREE in-class presentation introduces students to turtle and snake species found right here in Ontario. The presentation includes reptile characteristics, habitats, predators, threats that contribute to their decline, and research that is being conducted to help save them.

Students will see a PowerPoint show that describes a selection of the province’s 26 native reptiles in full-colour and easy-to-understand language. The show is combined with a hands-on display of real turtle shells, skulls and eggs, along with a selection of predatory mammal skulls. A question and answer period concludes the presentation.

The human activities that are threatening these secretive animals are an important part of the presentation. Unfortunately, many turtle and snake species are at risk of disappearing forever from their native habitats and they are frequently overlooked when it comes to conservation efforts.

The intent of the Reptiles at Risk program is for young people to gain a broader awareness of our native wildlife. As more people become informed about our species at risk, the likelihood of recovery for these amazing creatures improves.

Educational resources

Teachers who book a presentation will receive educational posters, fact sheets and a copy of the Spiny Softshell Turtle Stewardship Guide.

Other information

• The program is FREE of charge.

• The presentation is approximately 30–60 minutes in length.

• No live animals are used during the presentation.

• Libraries, adult education centres and naturalist groups are also welcome to book presentations for their members.

• Schools and groups in or near the Upper Thames River watershed are encouraged to participate in this presentation.

• For more information on species at risk in the Thames River watershed, click HERE.

Curriculum links

This presentation may apply directly to Life System components of grades 4, 6 and 7, and to high school Biology courses SNC2D, SNC2P, SNC3E, SBI3U, and SBI3C, and will benefit any class studies.

Bookings & information

For more information or to book a presentation, contact , Species at Risk Biologist.

Thanks!

This program is provided free of charge, thanks to funding provided by the UTRCA, the Federal Habitat Stewardship Program, Provincial Species at Risk Stewardship Fund, and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Job Creation Program.

Photos: Spotted Turtle and Queensnake

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