The exhibit launched at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, where it was developed and curated. And, first things first: The exhibit does include live animals, meaning there will be sixty lizards and snakes -- including pythons, a Komodo dragon, a green basilisk and more. However, Hostetler would like to assure the truly phobic that it's very safe. "If the snakes do get out," he promises, "there's a contingency plan; they aren't going anywhere." So any visions of giant snakes making a home in the museum's basement, a la Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, are mere fantasies. (Don't lie: Some of you are disappointed.)
Apart from the live animals, there will also be a number of interactive components to the exhibit, including hands-on stations, games, a gecko's-eye-view camera, green-screen photo opportunities and more. Best of all? The exhibit is free with museum admission. Lizards & Snakes opens today and runs through July 8; visit www.dmns.org to learn more and plan your trip.
Feb. 3-July 8, 2012