On our recent visit to Albuquerque, New Mexico, I spent some time poking around the American International Rattlesnake Museum. Yes, really.

It's a fairly small space for all the info that's packed inside its walls. Founder Bob Evans says the team would love to move into a bigger facility, but this spot is pretty darned charming. If you can say that about a few rooms filled with snakes. Real live snakes.

They're on display in aquariums, but still... if you're squeamish, this is not a good place for you.

The displays warn that if a snake starts to shake his rattle, that means he's scared. So back away. 

That actually happened to me and you better believe I high tailed it away from that scenario. Most of the snakes are not venomous, but many are. Interesting to read about their habits and habitats. 

Of course, I left with a souvenir: a snake shaped ring. Already, I've had a few compliments and I'm very happy to tell folks where I bought it. Don't miss this quirky spot if/when you're in ABQ.

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