SunShine Singles Experience Iguanaland

SUNSHINE SINGLES ADVENTURE TO IGUANALAND, LOCATED IN PUNTA GORDA.

“Welcome Lois Lane,” said our presenter, Peter, who came onto the floor with Lois Lane, a boa constrictor draped around his shoulders (as of course boas are meant to be worn). It turns out she is a very pregnant female boa constrictor due to give birth to 40 to 60 babies sometime in late March or April. We learned that 30% of snake species give birth to live snakes, while the other 70% are born from eggs. This birth is a “first” for Iguanaland, and the caretakers are very excited. We learned that boas of this size (see picture) regularly eat a small pig about once a month — no difference for a pregnant female boa. Snakes have no ears but feel vibrations and have a super sense of smell.

During our visit, we also were introduced to a large turtle and two different types of iguanas. The shell of the turtle, we were told, is part of its skeleton (spine and rib cage), has nerve endings, is very sensitive to touch, and sheds tiny flakes.

With a ticket to Iguanaland (located in Punta Gorda off Bermont Rd., east of I-75), we received a half-hour presentation on four live reptiles and the opportunity to touch the animals (only if the audience member chooses to do so). A couple of families joined our group with young children; it was delightful to see their reactions to being so close to the animals. Additionally, you can spend time independently looking at 250 species of amphibians and reptiles from around the world that are in caged habitats, spread over 12 acres that have been created specifically to meet their needs. There is also a picnic area on the grounds. Sabal Springs SunShine Singles enjoyed the experience as well as lunch later at the Tamiami Tavern, located on the west side of US 41 at 10361 Tamiami Trail in Punta Gorda.

Throughout March members also enjoyed music at Eagle’s Landing, a dinner at M’Xuma Tacos and Mexican Grill at Babcock Ranch, a performance from the Lee County Community Band, music and dancing from the Bandstand, Honky Tonk line dancing lessons, a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Punta Gorda, music at other venues, the production of “Cats” at Broadway Palm, and at the end of the month a Babcock Swamp Buggy guided wildlife tour.

The April meeting will be April 22, in the Sunrise Room at Eagle’s Landing. If you would like to have your name added to the master e-mail list (or removed), please send your contact information to Jane Hansen, [email protected].