A Slithering Surprise in Shelburne
Imagine my surprise when I heard about the unexpected visitor that slithered its way into Shelburne, Vermont! A rattlesnake, an uncommon sight in these parts, made an appearance along the Lake Champlain shoreline, leaving locals and experts alike scratching their heads.
The Mysterious Journey
How did this snake find itself in Shelburne? The mystery deepens. Did it embark on a daring swim across the lake, or perhaps stow away on a boat, unnoticed by all? It's a riddle that continues to baffle us. As Catherine Leiser humorously puts it, "I'm on the lookout for bears, not rattlesnakes!"
A Rare Sighting
While the Timber Rattlesnake is native to Vermont, it's an uncommon sight in Shelburne. Typically, these snakes are spotted in Rutland County or the Connecticut River Valley. For hikers like Leiser, who are accustomed to seeing garter snakes, this rattlesnake was an unexpected and intriguing encounter.
Boat Launch Checkpoints
At the Shelburne Bay Park boat launch, the Lake Champlain Basin Project diligently checks boats for invasive species. However, as Owen mentions, their checklist usually consists of tiny micro-invertebrates, not snakes! This incident has certainly given them a new perspective on what might turn up.
Odd Critters and Starfish
Meg Modley, from the Lake Champlain Basin Program, has seen her fair share of unusual creatures in the lake, including starfish. But these starfish, she notes, are typically from home aquariums. The rattlesnake, on the other hand, is a wild and unexpected addition to the list of lake visitors.
Back to Its Roots
The rattlesnake was eventually returned to the New York side of Lake Champlain, where it had likely originated. Modley speculates that the snake might have been confused or seeking new food sources. Ensuring the snake's well-being and its ability to overwinter and return next year was the priority.
A Word of Advice
Experts advise that if you encounter a rare snake, keep a safe distance, especially with children and pets. Taking a few pictures, if it's safe to do so, can also be helpful for identification and tracking purposes.
Final Thoughts
This rattlesnake's journey serves as a reminder of the unexpected wonders and mysteries that nature can bring our way. It's a story that highlights the importance of being mindful and respectful of our wildlife, no matter how rare or unexpected their appearances may be.
