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Pre-visit Activities
1) Discuss the distinction between venomous animals and poisonous animals. Students need to understand the distinction because the exhibit deals almost exclusively with venomous animal. There is one poisonous animal in the exhibit—the poison dart frog.
The terms venom and poison are often used interchangeably. Although both venomous and poisonous animals have potentially dangerous toxins in their bodies, the way that toxin is delivered differs. (The following definitions are used by the National Aquarium in Baltimore.)
Venom is injected. Venomous animals have an active delivery system and may use their toxin for protection or to help them catch food. Unlike poisonous animals, venomous animals store their toxin in venom glands. They inject their toxin into their predator or prey using fangs, spines, harpoons, stingers, spurs or teeth.
Poison is eaten or absorbed. Poisonous animals have a passive delivery system and use their toxin for protection only. They store their toxin in their bodies or skin. If something eats the animal, the predator may get sick or even die.
2) Discuss with the class their experiences with venomous animals. "Tell me what you have heard about venomous animals"….might be a place to start. It is important to let students share their personal experiences regarding venomous animals as well as second hand information about venomous animals. Some students may be unusually afraid of a particular venomous animal. There are twenty-nine live venomous animals on display in the exhibit and student may need reassurance that all are safely exhibited in a way that allows close study of the animals while protecting the animals and the visitors.
3) Develop a list of venomous animals. How many venomous animals can students name?
4) Using the sheet titled "Fascinating Facts about Venomous Animals" cut each fact into its own strip and place in "Snake Can." Have students draw facts out of the can and read them to the class until all have been read. (To make a "Snake Can"--You could cover a large can with the pattern of a coral snake (RedYellowBlackYRYB) or add objects that make a rattle sound when the can is shaken.) This activity can be used as a counterpoint to the student discussion of their experiences with venomous animals. Some of the "fascinating facts" may suggest topics for student research projects.