NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University’s Department of Biology and Microbiology will host a Rattlesnake Conservancy workshop on the NSU campus for individuals interested in earning certification in handling venomous snakes.
“If you a land manager, environmental consultant, first responder, homeowner, zookeeper, veterinary professional, biologist, herpetology enthusiast, photographer or anyone looking to learn how to safely handle venomous reptiles while receiving a professional certification, this course is for you,” said Dr. Jerry Brunson, department head.
The Level 1 Venomous Handling Certification Course will take place from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5 and Saturday, Sept. 6 in Bienvenu Hall Room 122. The workshop will cover native species, ecology, snake anatomy and physiology, reproductive behaviors, venom toxinology, emergency snakebite management, captive husbandry and more with hands-on techniques in single hooking, double hooking, bagging and containment.
“One of our faculty, Assistant Professor of Biology JD Cox, is a snake enthusiast and took the training,” Brunson said. “He loved the experience and met with me to tell me about it and ask if we could bring them here. So, after a series of emails with the Conservancy, and receiving approval — which was interesting — to bring them, here we are.”
Participants must be 18 or over and sign a liability waiver. Participants must be able to follow physical and mental requirements, such as kneeling, walking, crouching, bending, squatting and lifting, follow directions, communicate clearly and complete a written exam.
Details, photos of last year’s class and registration is available at https://www.savethebuzztails.org/events/level-1-venomous-handling-certification-course-northwestern-state-university-louisiana-1.
For more information, visit The Rattlesnake Conservancy.