Snake Data

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I started recording our snakes' behaviors in 2023 and invited Museum visitors to contribute their observations while visiting the Curiosity Center. A QR code routes to a form where staff or visitors answer questions about what the snakes are doing. Where is the snake? What is she doing? How does she respond if you move in front of her window?

I checked in on the results this week and was pleased to see so many responses, over half of which were submitted by visitors. One commented, "Love this interactive info request!" I'm so happy that this project has given people a new way to interact with our live animals!

Not surprisingly, the data pointed to two common reptile characteristics. Both Digger and Emory spent the most time close to their heat lamps, and they both spent most of their time motionless. As ectothermic animals that can't create their own body heat, it makes sense that they spend time in warm places and conserve energy by resting.


I also noticed trends in the data that supported personality differences that I have seen while working with the snakes. Digger the Western Hognose Snake spent more time out in the open, 100% visible. She was also more likely to move toward movement outside of her habitat and more often observed flicking her tongue. That tracks with what I have seen; Digger's personality has always seemed more confident and curious.


Emory the rat snake spent more time in her hides and humidity box, and was more likely to move away when she saw movement outside. I wasn't surprised; Emory's personality is usually more cautious and she like to retreat to safety.

The final question on the form was an open space for comments. While some people entered practical behavioral notes, others took the time to show the snakes some love:
  • Super cute and friendly to me!
  • Digger is beautiful!
  • Very very cute snake! Big fan!
  • I love her
  • She is adorable and just sticking her head and tail out of the black box chilling out!
  • She is beautiful.
I often see people recoil or even run away from snakes, so it made me so happy to see folks sharing their appreciation for these reptiles! 

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