Whigham's 66th Annual Rattlesnake Roundup Celebrates Conservation

The historic event shifted focus to educating the public about the importance of rattlesnakes in the ecosystem.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Whigham, Georgia hosted its 66th annual Rattlesnake Roundup on Saturday, with the event now focused on conservation and education rather than collecting snakes. Over 100 vendors, 15 educational groups, and nearly 5,000 attendees came out to learn about the vital role rattlesnakes play in the local ecosystem as both predator and prey. Funds raised from the event will go towards community projects like building new restrooms and a helipad for LifeFlight.

Why it matters

The Rattlesnake Roundup has evolved from a collection event to one focused on conservation, reflecting a growing appreciation for the important ecological functions of rattlesnakes. As development continues in the region, educating the public about coexisting with these native reptiles is crucial.

The details

In 2022, the Rattlesnake Roundup shifted away from collecting snakes and instead emphasized conservation and education. This year's event featured over 100 vendors, 15 educational groups like the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and The Rattlesnake Conservancy, and drew nearly 5,000 attendees at its peak. Funds raised will go towards community projects like new restrooms and a helipad for LifeFlight.

  • The 66th annual Rattlesnake Roundup took place on Saturday, March 10, 2026.
  • The event switched its focus to conservation in 2022.

The players

Whigham Community Club

The volunteer organization that hosts the annual Rattlesnake Roundup and uses the funds raised to support the local community.

Rebecca Means

The founder and executive director of Conservation Pathways, who spoke about the beauty and importance of rattlesnakes.

Tiffany Bright

A representative from The Rattlesnake Conservancy who discussed the vital ecological role of rattlesnakes.

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What they’re saying

“I think they're the most beautiful snake that we have.”

— Rebecca Means, Founder and Executive Director, Conservation Pathways

“Rattlesnakes are potentially dangerous yet very important to the overall ecosystem. They're both predator and prey, controlling pest populations and feeding other snakes, birds, and mammals. They're also seed dispersers, and their venom can be used in research and medicine.”

— Tiffany Bright, The Rattlesnake Conservancy

What’s next

The Whigham Community Club plans to use funds raised from the Rattlesnake Roundup to build new restrooms in the pavilion area and construct a helipad for LifeFlight.

The takeaway

The Rattlesnake Roundup's shift to conservation and education reflects a growing appreciation for the vital role rattlesnakes play in the local ecosystem. By teaching the public about coexisting with these native reptiles, the event is helping to ensure their protection as development continues in the region.