I make a quick run out to the garden shed to drop off some empty planting flats, and had one of those reptile-induced oh-crap rushes just before I put the flats down on top of this 4+ foot king snake.
He was cooperative enough to stay in place while I ran back the house for my camera.
He’s welcome to all the rodents and Phoebes he can eat, but it would be nice if he’d let me know he’s coming so I don’t embarrass myself squealing like a city dude when he surprises me like that.
Also in the herpetological news from Goose Creek: there was a two-lined salamander perched on the chicken’s extra water bowl just outside their pen this morning. Kewl.
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Wow. Great photo, beautiful snake. Yes, it’s good to let the king live. I understand they also take care of the “bad” snakes. No, I don’t handle snakes, but they are great to look at and watch.
Salamanders are interesting also.
Too bad about your chickens. I say go big time……get 15 more chickens………you never know till you give it a chance………Ha !!!
Maybe the dog needs more meat in his diet….. 🙂
Take care
Mark
My guess is he decided to retire from the party early and sought out some peace and quiet. I’m glad he didn’t retire to the house or else you really would have heard a city-squeal!
I’m betting you have mice in your garden shed.
I’m glad rural people also squeal when surprised by a snake. Even this city girl, once I’m prepared, enjoys watching a snake.
Awesome snake. What could be better?
Bill:www.wildramblings.com
We’ve had several garter snakes in our yard, and I try to move them if they’re near where I’m working. Thankfully they’re the only snakes I’ve had in my yard or anywhere near the house to this point. I’ve also tried to clear the thick underbrush within 50-100 feet of the house to reduce the chances of them breeding too close by. BUt, the vacant parcel behind us that’s impossible to fully maintain provides plenty of shelter for them top be all snakey and live…and the rodents they don’t take care of, our cats do.
That looks like a black rat snake to me!