![DSC_3911](http://conservatorylab.org/wp-content/uploads/DSC_3911.jpg)
Our 2nd graders are in the midst of their expedition, “Don’t Be Scared: The Truth About Snakes,” and are deeply engaged in learning about our favorite fascinating reptiles. For their first case study, the students are investigating what makes a snake a snake and what distinguishes it from other reptiles. They’re becoming experts on one type of snake–the corn snake–through direct observation of a pet corn snake in their classrooms.
![DSC_3880](http://conservatorylab.org/wp-content/uploads/DSC_3880.jpg)
This Thursday, Joy Marzolf, our trusted snake expert from the Audobon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in Natick, visited the 2nd graders. She brought with her a lizard and several types of snakes. Students learned about the special features of each type of snake and how to touch and to hold snakes without scaring them.
![DSC_3990](http://conservatorylab.org/wp-content/uploads/DSC_3990.jpg)
Some students were surprised to learn that snakes are much more scared of us than we are of them! It was a brave day for many students who conquered fears and held a snake for the very first time
![DSC_3975](http://conservatorylab.org/wp-content/uploads/DSC_3975.jpg)