Join herpetologists, conservationists, educators, photographers, and reptile enthusiasts in Indianapolis for the 47th Midwest Herpetological Symposium on November 13–15, 2026.
About the Symposium
The Midwest Herpetological Symposium brings together herpetologists, naturalists, conservationists, educators, students, photographers, and reptile & amphibian enthusiasts for a weekend dedicated to reptiles, amphibians, field biology, conservation, and education.
The symposium features professional presentations, junior herpetologist talks, live animals, vendors, herp artwork, educational displays, a banquet, live auction, and opportunities to network with others passionate about herpetology.
Hosted by the Hoosier Herpetological Society, the symposium has become one of the Midwest’s premier gatherings celebrating reptiles and amphibians.
Featured Speakers
Dr. Thomas Pauley
Professor Emeritus at Marshall University and longtime Appalachian herpetologist. Dr. Pauley is internationally recognized for his salamander research, conservation work, and decades of contributions to herpetology and field biology.
Dr. Steve Thompson
Professor of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Purdue University specializing in exotic animal medicine, reptile surgery, conservation medicine, and wildlife health research.
Nate Engbrecht
Indiana State Herpetologist with the Indiana DNR. Nate specializes in reptile and amphibian conservation, monitoring, habitat restoration, and research involving Indiana’s rare and imperiled herpetofauna.
Jason Holzworth
Wildlife photographer, conservation advocate, and safari leader whose work highlights reptiles, amphibians, and biodiversity through photography, education, and field research.
Twan Leenders
Herpetologist, wildlife photographer, and author specializing in Central American reptiles and amphibians. Twan works in ecological restoration and tropical biodiversity conservation.
Terry L. Vandeventer
Veteran herpetologist, educator, and founder of the Living Reptile Museum. Terry has spent decades promoting reptile education, public outreach, and herpetological conservation.
Schedule of Events
Friday, November 13, 2026 (all times Eastern)
5:00 PM – Registration Opens
6:30 PM – Welcome Remarks
6:45–7:30 PM – Evening Presentation
7:30 PM – Icebreaker with Snacks & Drinks; Explore the Live Herp Displays and Book & Art Sales
Saturday, November 14, 2026
8:00–8:10 AM – Welcome & Opening Remarks
8:10–11:40 AM – Morning Presentations (break 10:00–10:10 AM)
11:40 AM–1:10 PM – Lunch on Your Own
1:10–4:40 PM – Afternoon Presentations (break 3:00–3:10 PM)
4:40–6:30 PM – Break Before the Evening Program
6:30 PM – Symposium Banquet
7:30–8:30 PM – Keynote: Dr. Thomas Pauley, “Stories of a Herpetologist’s Adventures in the Appalachians”
Approx. 8:45 PM – Annual Live Auction
Saturday speakers include Bethannie Perrine (Indiana State University), Jason Holzworth, Terry Vandeventer, Nate Engbrecht, Rusty Reed (Blackwater Turtle Refuge), Twan Leenders and Dr. Steve Thompson.
Sunday, November 15, 2026
8:00 AM – Future Symposium Planning Meeting
10:00 AM – Behind-the-Scenes Tour:
Indianapolis Zoo Reptile Area
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What to Expect
What does registration include?
Registration includes all presentations, the hospitality areas, live native reptile and amphibian displays, vendors and book signings, and the live auction. Attendees also receive free Indianapolis Zoo admission with their symposium badge. Banquet details will be confirmed separately.
Do I need to be a professional herpetologist to attend?
No. The symposium is open to anyone interested in reptiles, amphibians, conservation, wildlife photography, field biology, or herpetoculture.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes. Free parking is available for symposium attendees at the venue and hotel.
Is the symposium family friendly?
Yes. The Midwest Herpetological Symposium welcomes attendees of all ages, including families, students, hobbyists, educators, photographers, and professional herpetologists.
Will there be live animals and vendors?
Yes. The symposium will feature live educational animal displays, reptile and amphibian vendors, herp-related artwork, books, conservation organizations, and educational exhibits.
Will there be field trips or behind-the-scenes experiences?
Yes. On Sunday, November 15 at 10:00 AM, attendees are invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of the Indianapolis Zoo reptile area. Symposium attendees also receive free Zoo admission with their badge. Tour details will be announced.
