You never know what’ll be around the next bend in the PAWilds. While traveling down a state forest road in Cameron County, I came around a curve to see a rattlesnake stretched across the dirt road. I would guess it measured around 4 feet in length.
I quickly and safely stopped the car to ensure it crossed the road without harm. Keeping a safe distance, I approached from the tail-end, slowly guiding the snake forward until it completed its journey across the road.
As the snake reached the edge of the gravel road, it began shaking its rattle, signaling its agitation and discomfort with the situation. I backed off further as it slithered up the embankment next to the road, stopping midway, where it took a defensive position.
So I kept my distance and took the opportunity to grab some shots. The snake didn’t seem too bothered by me (after I finished guiding it off the road, that is), just cautious of my presence.
It’s unusual for me to see a rattlesnake staying still for any amount of time, though I never seek them out. When it began moving again, heading further up the bank, I thanked it for its cooperation, bid it ado, and I continued on with my drive through the PAWilds to see what might be around the next bend.
