Gladys Porter Zoo presents live reptiles at Quinta Mazatlan on July 7 with an up-close learning experience.

The Gladys Porter Zoo focuses on conservation, education, recreation and also serves as a wildlife rehabilitation center. Public outreach is an important aspect of the zoo’s overall mission and is a primary responsibility for Jaime Zepeda. Zepeda will present several species of reptiles, turtles, snakes and even an alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). Attendees will learn what makes these animals so unique and important.

Zepeda graduated from University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with a bachelor degree in biology. He became a Texas Master Naturalist and volunteered at Gladys Porter Zoo prior to becoming permanent staff at the zoo.

Thursday Night Live takes place Thursday evenings through August from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sponsors are South Texas Health System Children’s and Freels Orthodontics.

Park admission is $3 per person and can be pre-purchased at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

For more information, contact Quinta Mazatlán.