So, You Wanna Know About NYC's Slithery Residents? Buckle Up, Buttercup!
Ever wondered if that slithering sound you heard in the subway was just your imagination, or perhaps a particularly enthusiastic breakdancer? Fear not, curious New Yorker, because we're here to delve into the fascinating world of NYC's snake population.
 |
| How Many Snakes Are In New York City |
The Big Apple with a Side of Noodle: How Many Serpents Are We Talking?
Now, New York City ain't exactly the Amazon rainforest. We're talking more concrete jungle than creepy crawly jungle. But that doesn't mean our scaly friends are totally out of luck. Estimates suggest there could be around half of the 17 snake species found in New York State slithering around in the city that never sleeps.
Wait, half? Yep, you read that right. Millions of people and years of urban development have pushed most of these cold-blooded cuties upstate. But fear not, intrepid explorer, there are still opportunities to spot a serpent or two in unexpected places!
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
Where to Find NYC's Finest Scales-smen (and Women!)
Forget fancy restaurants, the hottest spots to find a date in NYC might just be... wait for it... wooded areas and gardens. That's right, folks. If you're looking for love (or maybe just a harmless reptile sighting), Central Park or Van Cortlandt Park might be your best bet.
But beware! Even these green spaces aren't exactly teeming with these legless wonders. You might have better luck spotting a yoga enthusiast in pretzel pose than a slithering sneak.
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
However! Keep your eyes peeled in other unexpected places like:
 |
- Unused lots (think abandoned buildings with a "no trespassing" vibe, not your corner bodega's parking spot)
- Along highways (perfect for those who enjoy a bit of danger with their snake spotting)
- The occasional backyard (cue terrified screams from suburban moms)
Remember: Always respect these wild creatures and give them their space.
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
NYC's Snake Scene: More Garden Hose Than Fangtastic
Now, let's talk about the kind of snakes you might encounter. Unlike their Hollywood counterparts, most NYC snakes are about as scary as a soggy bagel.
The most common finds include:
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
- Eastern Garter Snakes: These guys come with built-in warning stripes (think yellow and black) and are generally more interested in lunch (read: worms) than your ankles.
- Northern Brown Snakes: These little brown fellas are shy and reclusive, preferring the peace and quiet of your garden shed to the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Eastern Ribbon Snakes: Think of these guys as the skinny jeans of the snake world. They're small, sleek, and more likely to be mistaken for a shoelace than a serpent.
Now, before you start hyperventilating, let's talk about venomous snakes. NYC does have a very small population of these, including the copperhead. But these guys are about as common as a functioning payphone, and even more likely to mind their own business than bother you.
The bottom line: Unless you're planning a midnight picnic in a swamp, encountering a venomous snake in NYC is about as likely as winning the lottery (though way less fun).
How to Live Your Best Snake-Free Life in NYC (Just in Case)
- How to Avoid Snakes: Stick to the well-maintained paths in parks and green spaces. Snakes tend to avoid open areas and prefer hiding spots like tall grass and brush piles.
- How to Identify a Snake: If you see a snake, don't panic! Most NYC snakes are harmless. Look for physical characteristics like stripes, spots, or rattles (a giveaway for venomous snakes).
- How to React to a Snake Encounter: Admire from afar! Don't try to handle or approach a snake, even if it looks harmless.
- How to Snake-Proof Your Yard: Keep your grass mowed and eliminate hiding spots like woodpiles or overgrown areas.
- How to Deal with a Snake in Your Home: Call animal control! They're the experts in safely removing unwanted slitherers.
 |
