See a magnificent Mexican Black King snake

The latest inhabitant at the Stratford Butterfly Farm and on display in Minibeast Metropolis is a magnificent Mexican Black Kingsnake, also known as Lampropeltis getula nigrita. The snake, which is native to Mexico and non-venomous, can be found in rocky areas with lush vegetation. They are opportunist hunters; they burrow into the ground and strike out at most creatures that pass them. Their main diet consists of small rodents, lizards, birds, eggs and even rattlesnakes! If provoked, they will rattle their tail, beating it against the ground. The snake kills by wrapping 1 - 2 coils around its prey, which restricts blood flow but does not crush its victim. The snake is then able to monitor its prey's heartbeat to know when it has died.

Join 'Jasmine and the Community Harps' on 3 December for Christmas Carols in the Education Area at 1.30pm. Plus there will be a craft session at 11am where children can make percussion instruments and accompany the Harp. For those looking for extra special stocking-fillers this Christmas, the nature inspired Gift Shop is a treasure trove of ideas for all the family. Stratford Butterfly Farm tickets make a wonderful gift for friends and loved ones. Receive an extra month free on an annual season ticket when you purchase one between 15 November and 31 December.

During the Christmas holidays, children and adults can discover some of the amazing creatures that live at the Butterfly Farm with the popular 'Meet the Minibeast' handling sessions. These will take place twice daily from 27 December to 7 January with the Education Team in the Discovery Zone. Visitors will be able to hold a variety of Stick Insects, African Land Snails, giant Millipedes and even Madagascan Cockroaches!

Jane Kendrick, Marketing Manager at Stratford Butterfly Farm said "With Christmas Carols, craft sessions, shopping, Meet the Mini-beast handling sessions and the chance to see the magnificent Black Kingsnake, Stratford Butterfly Farm has something for all the family to enjoy this Christmas".

To see hundreds of spectacular butterflies, insects, reptiles and spiders visit the Butterfly Farm from 10am to 5:00pm, last entry 3.30pm. Open every day of the week except Christmas Day. For more information including admission prices and group rates, please visit the website at http://www.butterflyfarm.co.uk or telephone on 01789 299288.

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