Join us September 5–11 as we celebrate the birthday of one of Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s most beloved animal ambassadors, Duke the Eastern Kingsnake.
September 9 marks Duke’s 19th birthday—a remarkable milestone for a species that typically lives about 10–15 years in the wild.
Throughout the week, visit the Nature Nook to learn more about Duke, Eastern Kingsnakes, and the important role snakes play in North Carolina’s natural environment.
Discover what makes Eastern Kingsnakes unique, where they live, what they eat, and how they contribute to a healthy ecosystem. Along the way, you’ll also get to know Duke himself and learn why this longtime Garden resident is worth celebrating.
Birthday activities and displays are designed for all ages, with opportunities to:
- Meet Duke and learn more about Eastern Kingsnakes
- Explore interactive educational displays
- Sign Duke’s giant birthday card
- Color your own Duke
- Take a photo with our birthday King
- Visit Duke’s specially decorated birthday habitat
Whether you already appreciate snakes or usually prefer to admire them from a distance, Duke’s Birthday Week is an invitation to look a little closer, learn something new, and discover a greater appreciation for the wildlife that shares our world.
All activities included with your Garden Admission. No preregistration required.
