Local reptile expert Tyrone Ping will present a public talk about the snakes and reptiles of Franschhoek at the Franschhoek Theatre on Wednesday 28 February.
Ping, who is well-known online for his herpetology-focused YouTube channel, is active as a field guide specialising in South African reptile life.
He is the author of several field guides on local reptiles as well as multiple scientific papers, and is also the curator of one of the most comprehensive collections of reptile-related images.
The talk will serve as an introduction to the reptile life of Franschhoek and surrounds, covering both common and lesser-known creatures. Ping will also speak about matters of reptile conservation, the public perception of reptiles and the basics of venomous and non-venomous species.
Field guides will be on sale at the event, and Wordsworth Books will also host a nature-related offering of books.
The event is the fourth talk organised by SmallTalX in recent months, bringing subject-matter experts into contact with the general public. The Franschhoek Theatre provides an intimate setting for the talk, and previous events have been received with enthusiasm by all who attended.
Last October, marine biologist Dr Sara Andreotti discussed great-white shark conservation and tracking as well as shark behaviour and innovative alternatives to shark nets. The following month, Sarah Buchner, scientific operations lead at MeerKAT, discussed radio astronomy and rotating neutron stars (pulsars). In January, Liam Burden presented a lecture demonstration on the classical saxophone, including the performance of Japanese art music.
Future talks include a pre-election event with political analyst and journalist John Matisonn.
Ping’s talk takes place at the Franschhoek Theatre on 28 February at 19:00. Tickets cost R250 and include a glass of wine, snacks and a question-and-answer session with the speaker.
- Booking is essential, and can be made online at www.franschhoektheatre.co.za. For any queries contact Leila Shirley at 073 421 8879 or send an email to smalltalx.info@gmail.com.
