Rose Cottage Ltd

After living near a 4-acre lake for almost 7 years, I am getting used to seeing things like snakes around the property. I’d be an idiot if I didn’t expect to see them. But I have my limits.

While walking around the lake in my bathrobe a few mornings back, mug of Maxwell House coffee in hand, I nearly tripped over a black snake. I’m not sure which of us was more surprised. There had been several 40 +/- degree mornings so a warm-weather creature like a snake was not expected. But there it was.

I’ve decided, in an effort to live in harmony with this lake environment, to set up a virtual 150 foot perimeter around the house that is my “Stay Out” zone. Snakes that invade the perimeter are dealt with accordingly. Any snakes smart enough to stay on any of the other 6 acres of the property are considered legal immigrants – and are left alone.

This one apparently needs a sign or something reminding him or her not to cross the perimeter, and most definately to NOT cross in front of me while I’m drinking my first cup of coffee for the day. I had to put down the coffee to grab the axe – not a good moment – no matter how you look at it.

So, the lessons for the day are (#1), that snakes can be found much later in the season than I would have expected, and (#2), snakes make their own rules.

Although I am trying to add a little humor here, it is important to note that snakes ARE still out in the environment. A lot of people, once the heat and humidity of summer are gone, begin doing more trail-walking and hiking in the woods. This is a good thing – to get out and get moving – just be aware that some “summer-oriented” creatures are still out and about as well. Snakes, in particular, are also moving a lot slower now than they do mid-summer. One you might have never seen in summer – since it moved out of range when it heard you coming – will be lying in one spot and not moving away from you as you (and it) would prefer. Keep your eyes open…or your axe at the ready…

Animals you will most likely encounter on a trip to the country….