Illegal To Kill, Fun To Learn About: World Snake Day Comes To Cedarville State Forest

BRANDYWINE, Md. — Snakes may not be everyone’s favorite animal, but they’ll be the stars of the show at Cedarville State Forest next weekend. In celebration of World Snake Day, visitors are invited to get an up-close look at some of the park’s resident snakes and turtles during a live reptile feeding led by park staff.

Hosted by Cedarville State Forest through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the program offers families and nature lovers a chance to learn about Maryland’s native reptiles, their role in the environment and why these often misunderstood creatures deserve a little more appreciation.

The event will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Cedarville State Forest Park Headquarters, 10201 Bee Oak Road in Brandywine. The program is included with standard park admission, which is $3 per vehicle for Maryland residents and $5 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors.

Cedarville State Forest spans more than 3,800 acres across Charles and Prince George’s counties. Its mix of hardwood forests, pine stands and wetlands at the headwaters of Zekiah Swamp provides ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, including many of Maryland’s native snake species.

Maryland is home to 27 species and subspecies of snakes, but only two — the copperhead and timber rattlesnake — are venomous. Despite their reputation, all native snakes are protected under Maryland law because of the important role they play in controlling rodents and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

State regulations prohibit killing or possessing a native snake without a permit from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Violations can carry penalties of up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail.

Whether you’re hoping to conquer a fear of snakes, teach the kids something new or simply watch a fascinating feeding demonstration, the World Snake Day event offers a unique opportunity to experience Maryland’s wildlife from a safe distance while learning from park staff.

About World Snake Day

World Snake Day is celebrated each year on July 16 to highlight the important role snakes play in ecosystems around the world. With more than 3,000 snake species globally, the annual observance encourages people to learn about these often misunderstood reptiles, their habitats and the conservation challenges many species face.

While many people fear snakes, they are vital predators that help control rodent populations and maintain healthy ecosystems. The day also promotes education about snake conservation and respectful coexistence with wildlife.

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