Vote for a critter

The candidates: Black Rat Snake, Eastern Box Turtle, and American Toad.

In what might be the most cold-blooded election ever, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to vote for their favorite herptile. 

The candidates are a snake, a toad, and a turtle.

Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale is campaign headquarters for the Eastern Box Turtle, Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria is home base for the American Toad, and Riverbend Park in Great Falls is throwing its support behind the Black Rat Snake.

Park visitors can cast one ballot per day at any of the 10 park voting sites, including Hidden Oaks and Green Spring Gardens in Mason District. The voting period is Sept. 10 until noon on Nov. 8. There is no age limit, and people can vote more than once. 

There will be three campaign rallies and debates during the election cycle. The first is Sept. 24, 2-3 p.m. at Huntley Meadows. The candidates will gather again on Oct. 16, 2:45-3:45 p.m. at Riverbend, and they’ll make their final appearance together on Nov. 6, 2:45-3:45 p.m. at Hidden Oaks. All of these events are free.

The winner will be announced at a free Toast the Victor Campfire, 4:30-5:30 p.m. on Nov. 8 at Riverbend Park, with toasted marshmallows.