GA: Claxton Rattlesnake & Wildlife Fest Promises Wild Time

Rattlesnakes from three states. Exhibits by zoos, wildlife nonprofits and animal rescue groups. Fun, from archery shoots to a fishing simulator, and education, including a birds of prey program by Georgia Southern University and a cutaway display promoting Canoochee River conservation.

All this and much more is in store at the Claxton Rattlesnake & Wildlife Festival this weekend.

No wonder Evans County Wildlife Club President Bruce Purcell is excited, and expecting a record crowd. The festival “has mushroomed out kind of unbelievably with good stuff,” Purcell said.

Even Animal Planet will be filming at the festival, he said.

The 45-year-old event’s popularity surged after the club, which organizes the festival, voted to exclude buying or selling wild-caught rattlesnakes this year. (Rattlers displayed will be from captive populations.)

The change spiked interest and involvement. Festival-goers can see for themselves this weekend!

Rattlesnake & Wildlife Festival at a glance

8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, March 10; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, March 11

At Evans County Wildlife Club in Hagan (just west of Claxton off Ga. 280)

Admission: $5; free for ages 5 and younger

More: (912) 739-3820, (912) 739-1391 or www.claxtonevanschamber.com