Thursday, June 25, 2026
12:30 PM - 01:30 PM
Usery Mountain Regional Park
3939 N. Usery Pass Rd.
Mesa, AZ 85207
(602) 506-2930 ext 4
Join Ranger Jacque for a special America 250 Lunch n' Learn! Explore the complex history and symbolism of desert reptiles in the American story, from revolutionary flags to Hollywood legends. Click program title for more details.
Escape the midday heat and head into the air-conditioned Nature Center for this special America 25 Lunch n' Learn! From the Gadsden "Don't Tread on Me" flag to "Slytherin" and other Hollywood snake-lore, our nation's relationship with serpents has been marked by both deep reverence and intense fear. In this engaging presentation, Ranger Jacque will let the scales of justice weigh the truth behind these attitudes—and you be the judge! As we honor 250 years of American history, we will also explore the broader role of animals as American symbols and dive into the fascinating biology of our local desert residents. Did you know that more lives have actually been saved by snake-derived medical research than have been lost to snake encounters?
This program is designed for nature lovers of all ages. Coloring pages and a snake craft will be available for kids and the young at heart to make a snake friend to take home. Feel free to bring your lunch and enjoy this deep dive into the reptiles of the desert. Restrooms and water are available at the Nature Center.
MEETING LOCATION: Nature Center
No registration required.