Teachers' Pets See our live animals! These critters live behind the scenes at the Museum in the Education Division. They help us teach children about different kinds of animals during birthday parties, special events, school tours, and scout and outreach programs.
Coloring Contest! We received many wonderful entries to the Snake Coloring contest that ended March 31, 2010. Thank you to everyone who entered and we hope you learned something fun about poisonous snakes! You will all receive a small item in the mail by the end of April along with your entry (with the winners getting something extra special). The entries were divided into two age categories: Age 0-4 and Age 5 and up. The two winners are...
Campbell Calvey, age 4
and
Zoe Cox, age 5
Congratulations!
Color By Number Did you know there is a way to tell the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous snakes that look alike? It all has to do with the order of their red, yellow, and black stripes. Use this saying as a guide: “If red touches yellow, you’re a dead fellow; if red touches black, you’re all right, Jack.”
Download this PDF to color-by-number two snakes using 1 for yellow and 2 for red. Once you’re done, check if the red sections are touching yellow or black.
If the red sections are next to yellow… The snake is a poisonous coral snake. Coral snakes are found in the southern and eastern United States.
If the red sections are next to black… The snake is not poisonous, such as the scarlet kingsnake. The snake’s pattern of black, red, and yellow bands mimics the venomous coral snake, possibly as a trick to ward off predators.
Acorn Whistle Did you know that you can whistle loudly with an acorn? It’s takes a little practice, but can be a smart safety tip if you’re ever lost in the woods. Here’s how:
1) Separate the nut of the acorn from its top cap. 2) Put your thumbs together and make a “Y” shape. 3) Hold the acorn cap at the top of the “Y” with your two index fingers. 4) The inside of the cap should be facing you, and only about one-third should be uncovered by your thumbs. 5) Put your lips up to your thumbs and blow through the cap.
