Reptile Fest will feature something special Saturday

Reptiles will have to share the spotlight with other animals Saturday at the annual Reptile Fest.

This is the 15th year for the event at the Columbus State University Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center on South Lumpkin Road in Columbus.

The event, which is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., is a chance for the entire family to celebrate wildlife.

Assistant director Jan Kent said birds, fish, an African porcupine and baboon will be among animals featured along with the usual snakes, alligators and turtles.

“We want to show how everything is connected in the environment. Reptiles have their role in nature. The survival of other animals depends on reptiles,” she said.

However, the main feature will still be a wide variety of snakes.

“There are some the public will be able to hold and with which they can get their photograph taken.” Kent said.

Those attending will be able to feed tortoises.

Kent said there will be wooden snakes that children will be able to color and take home.

A Hiss America contest will be held for children who come dressed as reptiles.

There will be inflatables, including a bounce house, and face painting.

Kent said exhibitors from places such as Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, Ga. and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta will be present.

This event is the major fundraiser for the center. A raffle will be held and items to be offered include a television and a kayaking trip.

Kent said this is the 20th anniversary for the center and a special celebration will be held.

The center features natural history displays and nature trails. It offers formal and informal educational programs about ecology and natural history in the region.

This story was originally published April 21, 2016 at 10:35 AM with the headline "Reptile Fest will feature something special Saturday."