The Highlands Biological Foundation will continue its 2026 Zahner Conservation Lecture Series, a long-running summer tradition that connects the community with leading voices in science, conservation and the natural world.
On Thursday, July 16, the series will feature Carlton Burke, naturalist and wildlife rehabilitator with Carolina Mountain Naturalists, presenting “The Venomous Snakes of Western North Carolina.”
Many people encounter venomous snakes in the outdoors with uncertainty or fear, often struggling to distinguish them from the many harmless species found throughout the region. In this informative and hands-on presentation, Burke will guide attendees through how to identify Western North Carolina’s venomous snakes, how to respond safely in the field, and why these species play an essential role in maintaining healthy forest ecosystems. The program will also include live venomous snake examples for close observation and learning, offering a rare opportunity to better understand these often misunderstood animals.
Lectures are held on Thursday evenings at 6 p.m. at the Highlands Nature Center. Admission is free. To view the full Zahner Conservation Lecture Series schedule, visit highlandsbiological.org/zahner.