Scales and Tails: Reptiles of the Mojave Desert

Meet the charismatic scaly citizens of the Mojave Desert! This class gives an overview of reptiles in the area and the adaptations they use to thrive in this harsh environment. Learn about common types of encounters with reptiles, then take a walk in Black Rock and keep an eye out for these desert dwellers in the wild. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet the instructor’s ambassador animals! This class is suitable for families and youth ages 5 and older.

• This class is held at Black Rock, with the classroom portion taking place in the Black Rock Nature Center education room.

• This youth and family activity is suitable for ages 5 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required.

• No park pass is required.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

Activity level: The indoor portion of this class is ADA accessible. It requires very little travel with ADA accommodations, such as accessible parking, available.

The outdoor portion is leisurely and can be modified to accommodate participants. It requires less than 2 miles of walking with shade, seating, consistent terrain, and little to no elevation gain. Please email desertinstitute@joshuatree.org if you need specific accommodations.

Required items for participants: 

• Water

• Snacks

Your instructor: Spider Fawke is a retired park ranger and amateur herpetologist with a lifelong passion for the natural world. She is a graduate of the UC Riverside Palm Desert Master Naturalist and Master Climate Steward programs, where she deepened her knowledge of local ecosystems and climate resilience. With a strong background in environmental education and conservation, Spider continues to stay actively involved in sharing her expertise and love for wildlife, particularly reptiles and amphibians.

Photo credit: NPS/Samantha Laarman