Join Jefferson County Greenways and VIPER (Venomous Improved Preparedness for Emergency Responders) for a workshop where participants will learn to identify, safely handle (with tools), capture, and relocate Alabama's venomous snakes.
Please note: This is an intense, all-day class (9AM to 5PM) where participants will have the chance to learn to use a hook, tongs, and bucket on live venomous snakes, with the intention upon completion of being able to confidently identify and relocate venomous snakes in the field. Participants will have the chance to practice and bucket a live venomous snake in this class. This is a great class for first responders, people who work in the outdoors, and people who may encounter venomous snakes as a part of their work. However, anyone 18+ is welcome to attend. There is a 25-participant limit for this class.
If you have your own tools (hook, tongs, bucket), please feel free to bring them. However, no additional live snakes will be allowed in the class.
All participants must be 18+ and must sign two waivers: one for JCG and one for VIPER.
All participants must wear close-toed shoes, preferably boots that go above the ankle.
Disclaimer: There will be multiple live examples of all of Alabama's venomous snakes at this class (Timber Rattlesnake, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Pygmy Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth, Copperhead, and Eastern Coral Snake). These snakes will, under controlled circumstances, be outside of their enclosures and free-range on the floor of the classroom. All live snakes are presented with proper DCNR permitting.
