RATTLESNAKE RESEARCH PROGRAM

The centre is situated in one of Canada's most unique ecosystems. Visitors have the opportunity to see a wide variety of rare plants and animals that live only in the desert lands of the Okanagan Valley.

Most notable among these is the Western Rattlesnake. Signs scattered liberally around the property alert visitors to their presence. But while endemic to the region, the species is at risk.

To help protect them, the Osoyoos Indian Band, in partnership with the Canadian Wildlife Service, launched the Rattlesnake Research Program in 2002. Since then, it has become a favourite attraction of visitors.

Researchers capture the rattlesnakes, then measure, weigh, and tag them with tiny microchips so that they can be studied - and better protected - in their natural environment. They are then released back into the wild. A small number of snakes are also equipped with radio-transmitters, allowing researchers to track their movements for two years. All of the snakes' rattles are painted so that previously tagged animals won't be recaptured.

PLAN FOR SUSTAINABILITY

The Rattlesnake Research Program involves both native and non-native biologists, interpreters, and conservation technicians. Together, they seek to better understand how rattlesnakes use the land. Snakes are tracked to gain important knowledge about the routes used for travel and the areas used to hibernate, hunt, bask, and mate.

This monitoring helps identify the snakes' critical habitat so that the Osoyoos Indian Band can preserve and protect sensitive areas, carefully locate their facilities, and reduce the potential for encounters and conflict between snakes and humans.

EDUCATION KEY TO PROTECTION

The centre hopes that the program will encourage stewardship by helping people better understand rattlesnakes and the region's fragile ecosystems.

During daily awareness presentations, you can learn about the rattlesnake biology and the threats to their survival. In the Critter Corner exhibit area, enjoy outdoor and indoor viewing areas and a snake demonstration area - plus a rattlesnake 'hotel' complete with peek-a-boo windows. Those lucky enough to be visiting during the weekly tagging sessions can observe the thrill of the capture first-hand.

"Please note that the rattlesnakes and the critters of the desert are seasonal - many go into hibernation - and are seen best between April to October, so time your visits accordingly for the critters, but there are always wonderful things to be seen in all four seasons."

The Rattlesnake Research Program is the proud recipient of the Aboriginal Tourism British Columbia "Power of Education" award.