MOSCOW, ID – “Snail Hunters,” a documentary featuring University of Idaho researchers in their search for clues unlocking the mysteries of evolution through the study of snails on the Galápagos Islands, will screen in two locations next month.
The Snail Hunters Idaho Film Tour brings this visually stunning and thought-provoking film to audiences in Idaho Falls and Moscow, as well as other locations in the future. Following each screening, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the researchers to ask questions, gain deeper insights into the film’s creation, content and research.
The free screenings will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, at the Bennion Student Union in Idaho Falls, and at 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, during the Kino Short Film Festival at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, 508 S. Main St., Moscow.
The hour-long feature documentary produced by Bedrock Film Works follows three U of I researchers — College of Science Professors Christine Parent and Luke Harmon and College of Education, Health and Human Sciences Professor Brant Miller on an expedition to the Galápagos Islands. Their mission: to discover the key to coexistence and solve the Earth’s biodiversity crisis. Rather than studying the iconic tortoises or blue-footed boobies on this archipelago, they are snail hunters, studying a more unlikely critter in the crucible of evolution.
Parent, a biological sciences professor known in the Galápagos as “The Caracolera” (the Snail Hunter), has spent 20 years documenting the islands’ diverse snail species. Harmon, a biological sciences professor, specializes in evolutionary biology and the tree of life. Miller, an education professor focusing on adventure learning and authentic experiences, explores how real-world scientific exploration enhances STEM education.
Against the dramatic landscapes of volcanic terrain, lush forests and coastal cliffs, the scientists’ journey highlights the thrill of scientific discovery and the realities of a diverse and sometimes harsh landscape.
Director Jim Aikman has spent over 20 years making films about natural history, science and social justice. He will be joining the scientists and will be available to answer questions at the April 26 Red Carpet Premiere of the film.
For more information, visit go.uidaho.edu/snail-hunters.
