Yesterday was sunny, but not particularly warm—about 48 degrees F (9 degrees C)—so I was shocked when I encountered a snake. My eyes were pointed upwards as I scanned the trees for birds, but a slight movement just in front of my feet caught my attention and when I looked downward, I saw the sinuous curves of a snake (as shown in the second image below).
The snake, which I think may be an Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis), moved to the side of the path and into the brush. It stopped moving long enough, however, for me to capture the close-up image image below. I know that some folks will find the image to be creepy or even frightening, but I like the way that it shows some of the wonderful details of the snake’s markings and its body.
Although it may look like I was really close to the snake, I was actually a good distance away and was shooting with a long telephoto lens.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Wow. Brave snake to be out and about in these temperatures. I am warm blooded but am still only venturing out when wearing multiple layers.
Benjamin will be delighted with these photos tomorrow, especially the first one that has many visible details. You were brave, but I can not say the same for myself, I most likely would have screamed, tossed the camera and run! That snake looks pretty lengthy too. Thank-you (I think), Mr. Mike!!
Photos of snakes (and spiders) tend to provoke strong responses from viewers. I suspect that Benjamin will be just as fascinated by the snake as I was. 🙂
Nature is not always as predictable as we would like to think Rattlesnakes are out in the canyon even with the unusual snow we had last week. But we do live in the desert.
AWESOME PHOTOS Mike! I really like the close up.
I am ALWAYS startled when I encounter a snake. Yuck. I know they keep some vermin in check but I DO NOT like them. Ever