I was amazed at the length of the snake in the video you provided. According to Wikipedia the males average 5'11" and the females average 6'7" some are 8' long. Impressive!
Reptilian camouflage is so very effective and fascinates me. Like you in your desert home I encounter the prairie rattler several times each summer. The live and let live philosophy is always the preferred option, however, snoozing by the backdoor is definitely considered trespassing.
Thank you Patrick! The one I encountered was definitely a juvenile, as it was only about 30” long, but its camouflage was perfect. I totally agree about leaving snakes alone as much as possible, unless it’s a threat to life. My husband has caught and moved large rattlers to a wilder place a few times, but it’s a scary operation and I would not attempt it.
I, too, love snakes. My cat once in a great while brings in a garter snake. I've rescued it and relocated it in the defunct compost bin. Warm and safe. When I check later in the day, no snake, so I know it's safe somewhere.
Another Grand slam post, thanks Robin.
I was amazed at the length of the snake in the video you provided. According to Wikipedia the males average 5'11" and the females average 6'7" some are 8' long. Impressive!
Reptilian camouflage is so very effective and fascinates me. Like you in your desert home I encounter the prairie rattler several times each summer. The live and let live philosophy is always the preferred option, however, snoozing by the backdoor is definitely considered trespassing.
Thank you Patrick! The one I encountered was definitely a juvenile, as it was only about 30” long, but its camouflage was perfect. I totally agree about leaving snakes alone as much as possible, unless it’s a threat to life. My husband has caught and moved large rattlers to a wilder place a few times, but it’s a scary operation and I would not attempt it.
My method of relocation requires are very long stick and persistence. 😊
Wow! What a chilling experience… It shows the uneasy balance between nature and humans and respect for each
Yes, sometimes there is an “uneasy” relationship between wild creatures and humans, especially when we feel threatened. Thanks for your comments Judy!
Really enjoyed your snake tale! What incredible adventures you must have had during all those weeks!
I’ve rescued a few snakes over the years. A few times stopping traffic to let them cross the road.
Thanks for being a friend to snakes and nature, Pat. Yes, it was an incredible 4 months in Kenya. I may write up my journal sometime.
P.S. At the Leakey compound in Kenya (Tanzania?) Richard Leakey held a Black Mamba to show us. I backed off!
Wow Marion! Richard Leakey was quite a character, but that sounds memorable. He was Kenyan, but did work in Tanzania.
I, too, love snakes. My cat once in a great while brings in a garter snake. I've rescued it and relocated it in the defunct compost bin. Warm and safe. When I check later in the day, no snake, so I know it's safe somewhere.
Thanks for rescuing garter snakes! They’re an important part of our ecosystem. 👍