The department of biology at Missouri Western State University and the Missouri Department of Conservation present the first “Herp-O-Rama,” an educational event about Missouri’s amphibians and reptiles, from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 28 at the MDC office, 701 James McCarthy Drive on the Missouri Western campus.

“We decided to hold an event patterned after the highly successful ‘Insect-O-Rama’ held each year at MDC, focusing on snakes, turtles, frogs and other creatures that are often feared and misunderstood,” said Dr. Mark Mills, assistant professor of biology who specializes in herpetology. “We’ll have live animals, crafts for young children and plenty of educational materials for all.”

John Casey, biologist and teacher, will present his “Casey’s Creatures” program, giving visitors a chance to interact with a variety of amphibians and reptiles. There will be a free drawing for door prizes, and even a frog-jumping contest.

“Herp-O-Rama” is an MDC Discover Nature Families program, designed to help adults and children explore nature together. For more information, contact the Department of Conservation at 816-271-3100.

Missouri Western State University is a comprehensive regional university providing a blend of traditional liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university offers student-centered, high quality instruction that focuses on experience-based learning, community service, and state-of-the-art technology. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit www.missouriwestern.edu.