FORT GREGG-ADAMS, Va. — Anticipating a greater number of snake sightings as the weather gets warmer, the Fort Gregg-Adams Environmental Management Division is reminding community members that killing these reptiles is illegal in Virginia.
The best practice is to leave snakes alone, according to information from Shannon Scully, a wildlife biologist with the Directorate of Public Works.
If a person spots one, it’s likely traveling between habitats, just as humans travel between work, home, the grocery store and so forth, Scully stated. In most cases, the snake will move on shortly. If it’s in an inconvenient location, or if it is found indoors, call the experts and allow them to take care of the situation in a safe and ecologically responsible manner.
For snake removal, EMD experts can be reached during regular duty hours at (804) 308-6027, (804) 734-3766, or (804) 734-5071. The 24/7 contact number for the Fort Gregg-Adams Game Warden is (804) 734-7400.
There are about 15 types of snakes that are known to exist on Fort Gregg-Adams, Scully stated.
Only two venomous species are found in the area – the Eastern Copperhead, which is commonly found in wooded areas, and the Northern Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin, which is occasionally spotted along the Appomattox River.
A Copperhead is distinguished by the dark hourglass-shaped bands along its body. Juveniles have a bright yellow-green tail tip. They’re usually found hiding under natural or man-made debris, such as logs, boards, scrap metal or trash, so always use caution when lifting such objects from the ground. Contrary to common misconceptions, most snakes like the Copperhead are not purposefully aggressive. They typically only bite when provoked or stepped on.
Native snake species are valuable for many reasons, Scully said.
Ecologically, they are both predator and prey. Snakes are a food source for birds, mammals, fish, and other reptiles. Conversely, they feed on birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, and insects. Many small pests, such as mice and slugs, are eaten by snakes which keeps their populations in check.
Some native species that are commonly seen on post include Black Rat Snakes and Northern Black Racers. These snakes are great neighbors as they love to help clear your yard of pest species and they are extremely docile.
For more about snakes in Virginia, check out: https://wildlifecenter.org/help-advice/managing-wildlife-conflicts-and-habitats/snakes-neighbors
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