The mere mention of a snake is often enough to give someone the heebie-jeebies. Typically perceived as a symbol of evil and portrayed as creepy, slimy and particularly dangerous, you might be surprised how many snake lovers are actually out there.
Sometimes called ophiophilists or herpers, true snake enthusiasts from across the borough convened upon the Salt Marsh Nature Center, located at 3301 Avenue U, on Saturday, August 2nd, to learn more about “All That Slithers.”
Dr. Leroy Núñez, Department of Ecology and Evolution, Stony Brook University, shared a comprehensive PowerPoint slide presentation with the large group that had gathered, who were eager to learn which species are found in Marine Park and what role they play in the complex ecosystem of the salt marsh. While Núñez explained that thousands of snake species exist, and there many that are native to New York State, the only species found in the Marine Park Salt Marsh is the Eastern Garter Snake.
Easily identified by its olive green to black-brown color and characteristic yellow stripes (three in total — one on the back and one on each side), Núñez said that the Eastern Garter Snake is often small and is not considered dangerous to humans, though they may musk or bite when handled. A carnivorous, opportunistic hunter, the Eastern Garter eats frogs, toads, fish, small birds and rodents, as well as slugs, snails and even worms. Since snakes are cold-blooded and are unable to regulate their own body temperature, he discussed the way this particular species hibernates communally in underground dens from late October to early April, in order to survive cold temperatures.
After the presentation, attendees were invited to observe one of the two non-native snake species currently housed within the Nature Center, up-close: a Corn Snake, named Big Sam, who quickly became the highlight of the afternoon.
To see Big Sam yourself and explore the Salt Marsh Nature Center, visit https://www.marineparkalliance.org/visitor-info/salt-marsh-nature-center/ for their hours of operation.
