Snakes Alive program coming to Cheboygan library March 13

Cheboygan Daily Tribune
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Jim McGrath holds a black rat snake at Concord Academy Petoskey during his Snakes Alive program. The program was brought to the school in partnership with the Straits Area Audubon Society.
Jim McGrath holds a black rat snake at Concord Academy Petoskey during his Snakes Alive program. The program was brought to the school in partnership with the Straits Area Audubon Society.

CHEBOYGAN — Get an up close look at some of Michigan's native snakes at 6 p.m. on March 13 at the Cheboygan Area Public Library with a Snakes Alive presentation.

Jim McGrath, of the Lansing-based nature center Nature Discovery, will lead the "Snakes of Michigan" presentation, along with a few slithering special guests.

McGrath has visited many local schools and organizations over the years to educate students on Michigan's wildlife, including snakes, turtles, salamanders, giant moths and frogs.

More:Library Lines: Slither in to check out snakes

More:Straits Area Audubon Society a crucial advocate for Northern Michigan conservation

The program is designed to help people conquer their fear of snakes and overcome any bias they may have about the species.

“Over six years, all the children in the Straits area who have experienced this program have greatly enjoyed it," said McGrath. "They value the chance to learn the truth about snakes and to handle them. Because of direct human persecution combined with loss of habitat, many of Michigan's snake species are threatened or endangered. I want to do everything possible to change that through education and hands-on experience.”

Jim McGrath, founder of Nature Discovery, will lead the "Snakes of Michigan" presentation on March 13 at the Cheboygan Area Public Library.
Jim McGrath, founder of Nature Discovery, will lead the "Snakes of Michigan" presentation on March 13 at the Cheboygan Area Public Library.

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Expanded funding has enabled the “Snakes Alive” program to visit several local schools March 13-16, with presentations planned in Mackinaw City, Indian River and Petoskey.

“We are able to help offer the community an extra evening snake program this year to encourage understanding and respect for these at-risk creatures," said Rose Rynerson, president of the Straits Area Audubon Society.

This article originally appeared on Cheboygan Daily Tribune: Snakes Alive program coming to Cheboygan library March 13