Caring for Red-eared Sliders and Snake Sitting: NHSM Herp Club Hybrid Meeting

Like the rest of the world, NHSM is transitioning to a post-pandemic world. Welcome to hybrid programming which will allow those who are willing and able to meet in person to do so, but also allow others who would rather learn from home, to do so as well. The July meeting of the NHSM Herp Club will be the pilot test for NHSM hybrid programming. There may be bugs to work out – good thing we like bugs…

The meeting will feature two presentations. Katrina Smith, Adoption Coordinator for the Mid-Atlantic Turtle and Tortoise Society (MATTS), and NHSM Herp Club member will present on the natural history and care of red-eared sliders – a topic she has literally written the book on. If you order soon enough, you can bring the copy of the book ‘Red-Eared Sliders (Animal Planet Pet Care Library)’  (https://www.amazon.com/Red-Eared-Sliders-Animal-Planet-Library/dp/079383709X) to the meeting for Katrina to sign. Herp Curator and Club Leader, Tom Scollins will present on plans for the Herp Club 2021-2022, including the creation of a herp pet-sitting co-op where members of the club can help out other members of the club when they go away on vacation. Katrina Smith received a BS in biology from Eastern New Mexico University. She has been the adoptions coordinator for the Mid-Atlantic Turtle and Tortoise Society (MATTS) in Maryland for over 11 years, where she has been involved in the care and adoption of over 1000 turtles. She and her husband share their home with a western hognose snake, a mud turtle, various foster turtles and a cat.

If you were a member of the NHSM club pre-pandemic, you know that a highlight of each meeting was seeing and interacting and learning about the herps members keep at home. This tradition will continue. Please feel free to bring a herp friend with you to the meeting.

Meeting Formats – NOTE: non-members are welcome to attend.  A $5 donation is suggested.

1. In-person at the NHSM museum (6908 Belair Rd, 21206) – If you are vaccinated, the choice of wearing a mask will be left to you. If you or your child are not vaccinated, masks are required when indoors.
2. Online via Zoom

Doors will open at 6:30pm. The meeting will begin at 7:00pm. Again we ask for your patience as we navigate the challenges of a hybrid system. Everyone will receive the Zoom meeting details, just in case. We know the date is not the typical meeting date. There was a conflict. Thank you for your flexibility.

Are you fascinated with reptiles and amphibians? The Natural History Society of Maryland’s Herp Club promotes the proper husbandry, conservation, study, and appreciation of reptiles and amphibians. Meet fellow “Herpers”! Amateurs, professionals, and kids of all ages are welcome! Membership to NHSM required. (NHSM membership is $25 for individuals, $35 for families.) Herp Club membership is an additional $5 for individuals and $10 for families annually. https://www.marylandnature.org/club-membership/
Learn more about NHSM Clubs: https://youtu.be/pIA7naRjXws