Join herpetologist Raymond Corey for his up-close and interactive presentation of Alabama’s venomous snakes and other native reptiles!
Raymond Corey is a renowned herpetologist and conservation educator whose lifelong dedication to reptiles and amphibians has significantly impacted Alabama's wildlife community. Born in upstate New York and raised in Pennsylvania, Corey's passion ignited during childhood, where he studied herpetofauna extensively and learned safe handling of venomous snakes at a young age.
Upon relocating to Alabama, he founded and presides over the Alabama Herpetological Society, a key organization promoting research, conservation, and public outreach for native species. Corey also administers the thriving Alabama Reptile & Amphibians ID and Education Facebook group, with nearly 50,000 members relying on it for accurate identifications, educational resources, and efforts to combat common myths.
In 2018, Corey co-developed the Venomous Improved Preparedness for Emergency Responders (VIPER) class with Jimmy Stiles from Auburn University. This specialized training teaches first responders essential skills in snake identification, safe handling, and bite protocols, uniquely offering Continuing Education Credits. In 2025, VIPER earned the Best Environmental Education Community Project Award from the Environmental Education Association of Alabama.
Through hands-on presentations, community events, and steadfast advocacy, Corey continues to inspire responsible wildlife stewardship and protect Alabama's diverse herpetofauna.