So You Think You Saw a Slinky Noodle in Pennsylvania? A Guide to Keystone State Serpents
Ah, Pennsylvania. Land of liberty bells, cheesesteaks, and...snakes? That's right, slithering under rocks, sunning on logs, and occasionally giving unsuspecting hikers a heart attack, Pennsylvania boasts a surprising variety of scaley friends. But fear not, fellow fan of fresh air and avoiding fangs! This guide will help you navigate the wonderful world of Keystone State serpents.
 |
| What Kind Of Snakes Are In Pennsylvania |
The Non-Venomous Bunch: A Party for Your Picnic Basket (Probably)
Let's start with the chill snakes, the ones more interested in lunchtime than lunchtime with you. You're most likely to encounter a garter snake. These guys come in a rainbow of stripes (seriously, look it up) and are generally less scary than a rogue shoelace. Then there's the eastern milksnake, often mistaken for its venomous cousin the copperhead (more on that later). Milksnakes are the ultimate Pennsylvanian underdogs, even having a taste for other snakes, including...you guessed it, rattlesnakes!
Fun Fact: Milksnakes get their name from an old myth that they steal milk from cows. Spoiler alert: they don't.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
Other noteworthy non-venomous noodles include the northern watersnake, a fan of aquatic adventures, and the eastern hog-nosed snake, a drama queen known for its elaborate "death feigning" performances.
Now for the Hot Heads: Venomous Vipers to Treat With Respect
Pennsylvania has three venomous snakes, but don't let that send you running for the hills (unless you see one, then maybe a brisk walk is a good idea). The eastern copperhead is probably the most common venomous snake in the state. It has a distinctive copper-colored head (shocking, I know) and an hourglass pattern on its back. The timber rattlesnake, the state reptile of Pennsylvania, is less common but packs a more potent punch. You'll know it's nearby by the sound of its namesake rattle (unless it's a sneaky one, then you're on your own). Finally, there's the eastern massasauga, a shy and rare rattlesnake that mostly minds its own business in the western part of the state.
QuickTip: Compare this post with what you already know.
Important Note: If you encounter a venomous snake, admire it from a safe distance (like, way in the distance) and slowly back away. Do not attempt to handle it, poke it with a stick, or reenact that Indiana Jones scene. Leave snake wrangling to the professionals (or Harrison Ford).
 |
FAQ: Be a Snake Savvy Pennsylvanian
How to Identify a Snake: If you're not sure if a snake is venomous, it's best to assume it is. Look for triangular-shaped heads (venomous) vs. rounded heads (non-venomous) and elliptical pupils (venomous) vs. round pupils (non-venomous). But seriously, just leave snake identification to the experts.
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
How to Avoid Snakes: Stay on trails, wear sturdy shoes, and avoid tall grass and rocky areas where snakes might hang out.
How to Remove a Snake From Your Yard: If you find a snake in your yard, the best course of action is to call animal control. They're the experts, and they'll know how to safely relocate the little guy.
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
How to Help a Snake in Distress: If you see a snake that's been injured, leave it alone and call a wildlife rehab center. But remember, "distress" doesn't mean "slithering across the sidewalk." Snakes gotta snake.
How to Live With Snakes in Pennsylvania: Snakes are actually beneficial creatures! They help control rodent populations and are an important part of the ecosystem. So, the next time you see a snake, appreciate it from afar and be thankful you're not its lunch.
 |
