With over 300 acres of floodplain forest, Jones Park is home to a diverse group of amphibians and reptiles. From the tiny narrow-mouthed toads and baby Gulf Coast toads to seven-foot-long Texas rat snakes and American alligators, visitors have the opportunity to view a wealth of cold-blooded, scaly animals.
Red-eared Slider Turtle by Paul Roling
A favorite stop for visitors to see amphibians and reptiles is the cypress pond at the intersection of the Canoe Launch Trail and the Cypress Overlook Trail. Visitors can receive bags of turtle food at the nature center for a nominal donation to the Jesse Jones Park Volunteer organization. Scores of red-eared sliders and river cooter turtles will race towards the overlook deck to gulp hungrily at these tasty treats.
The local snake exhibit in the nature center is a great opportunity for park visitors to learn more about the native venomous and non-venomous snake species. Live specimens of all six species of venomous snakes that have been documented in Harris County can be viewed up close.
Throughout the year, the park offers many amphibian- and reptile-related programs, including specific programs on turtles, snakes, and frogs.
