The Calusa Herpetological Society Of Southwest Florida

Thursday, June 4, 2026 - 7:00 pm 

Speaker Information: This month's speaker will be longtime member Daniel Parker, the Director of Media for the United States Association of Reptile Keepers (USARK FL). The title of her talk is "Backyard Reptiles and Amphibians of SW FL-ID and Safety (plus USARK FL Update)".

In his talk, Parker will show photos and give identification tips for reptile and amphibian species that may pop up in the backyards of Southwest Florida. He will discuss the best ways to live alongside the creepiest and crawliest of creatures that Florida has to offer, including venomous, poisonous, and nonnative species. Parker will also give a brief USARK FL update on issues concerning reptile keepers.

Daniel Parker is the Director of Media for United States Association of Reptile Keepers Florida (USARK FL) and a biologist with DRMP. In the past he has worked for Ashton Biodiversity Research and Preservation Institute, Ashton and Ashton and Associates, University of Central Florida (UCF), Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Dunn Diagnostics, and Altamaha Environmental Consulting. Parker consulted on the Emmy Award-winning wildlife documentary My Life as a Turkey. Parker's photographs have been published in books such as Amphibians and Reptiles of Florida and Amphibians and Reptiles of Sanibel and Captiva Islands: A Natural History. His photos have also appeared in Reptiles, Reptilia, and Herp Nation magazines as well as numerous other publications worldwide. He hopes that his work has helped to promote an increased understanding of Florida's natural environment and the wildlife that lives there.

After the meeting, you are invited to join us at a nearby restaurant (announced at the meeting) for more herp discussions and camaraderie over food and drinks. See you there! $5.00 for non-members per meeting or buy a year membership ($25 individual) or ($30 family/business). The address of the Calusa Nature Center is 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905.

WHO'S INVITED? You are! Anyone with an interest in any aspect of herpetology or herpetoculture is welcome to attend, learn, and exchange their experiences with our friendly membership. Come out to meet others who keep, breed or study reptiles and amphibians, and let them share their fascination with you. We average 10 - 20 people attending every meeting.