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Deep Dive: Snakes vs. Newts
Ever stumble upon a newt ambling slowly across your path in the woods, and wondered why the little critter didn’t seem concerned by a world full of threatening animals? That's because newts are defended by one of the most dangerous poisons ever discovered—tetrodotoxin—and almost no predators can eat them: almost no predators. Some garter snakes in parts of California and Oregon have overcome this imposing defense, but dining on newts may come at a price. Learn about this evolutionary drama unfolding between predators and prey right here in Northern California. Join us to explore local garter snakes, newts and the poison that binds them in an evolutionary arms race.
Leader
Chris Feldman, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and Associate Director of UNR Museum of Natural History
Chris and his students are interested in a broad array of evolutionary, ecological and conservation topics, primarily in local reptiles and amphibians. Research in the lab often combines traditional field and museum studies with emerging molecular genetic techniques or other novel approaches to address fundamental questions in these vertebrate systems.
Contact Margot with Questions: email rawlinsm@sonoma.edu or call (650) 996-8322
Logistics
No previous experience or knowledge is required. This event is recommended for ages 12 and up.
Zoom meeting details will be sent to you upon registration. If you have not used Zoom before, please allow time to download and install the application before the event. Please log-in a few minutes early, as it may take more than one attempt if servers are busy.