Introduction

Ssso you want to be a herpetologist and ssstudy sssnakes! You've come to the right place. There are about 2700 species of snakes living in all continents except Antartica. Grab your binoculars and your staff and let's be on our way.

During your travels you will observe several snakes. The following questions will guide you along the way.

• What does the snake look like?
• Is the snake venomous?
• What is the snake's habitat?
• What does the snake eat?
• What is an interesting fact you learned about the snake?

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The Process

• First you will have to team up with one other herpetologist.
• Choose three snakes to "observe".
• Get a copy of your questions in your field notebook.
• Explore these sites to "observe" your snakes.
  • Snakes at the Fort Worth Zoo
  • Venomous Snakes
  • Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
  • Garter Snakes
  • All About Nature
• Include a drawing of your three snakes in your field notebook.
• You will share your field notebook with your classmates.
• As a final project you and your partner will choose an activity.
  • Snake graph
  • Snake habitat diorama
  • Do These Snakes Measure Up?

Evaluation

You and your partner will be graded using the following rubric. You will receive a group grade and an individual grade. Work hard and try your best!

	Unsatisfactory	Needs Improvement	Satisfactory	Excellent
Works well with partner
Completes field notebook questions
Includes drawings of three snakes
Includes one interesting fact about each snake
Final Project
Makes good use of time

After finishing this project you will know that there are many different types of snakes that live in many habitats throughout the world. These snakes come in all sizes and colors. Some are venomous, but most are not.