PHOTOS: One of Ohio’s biggest snakes spotted
BAZETTA TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW) – One of Ohio’s largest snakes has been living comfortably in a Trumbull County tree for years — and shows no signs of moving out any time soon.
This picture snapped by Heather Nigrin in Bazetta Township shows the snake, which she estimates to be about 4-5 feet long, on a tree in her front yard.
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Officials with the Ohio Division of Wildlife have identified the snake as a Gray Ratsnake, formerly known as a Black Ratsnake — it’s Ohio’s largest snake and can grow to be 8 feet long.
The snakes are common in the Buckeye State, but not always easily spotted. Experts explain that when the snake is first encountered, most freeze in position, blending in with their surroundings.
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Last year, Nigrin said two of the “beasts,” as she referred to them, called the tree home until one met its demise when it was hit by a car.
“I thought the remaining snake would’ve rehomed itself…but, I was wrong!” said Nigrin.
Credit: Heather Nigrin Credit: Heather Nigrin Credit: Heather Nigrin
She said on sunny days the large snake can often be spotted laying in a large rotted area in the tree and occasionally has been spotted by delivery drivers. Surprise!
According to a spokesperson with the Ohio Divison of Wildlife, the Gray Ratsnake is one of the most docile species that exist, and because of that, it’s commonly found in nature centers because of their tolerance to being handled by humans.
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“That said, keep wildlife wild and keep your distance from wild animals. No need to stress out this gorgeous creature unnecessarily,” said Jamey Emmert with ODNR. “Respect wildlife from afar.”
Nigrin said she has lived in the home for ten years. Previously, Gray Ratsnakes lived in the backyard as well, and every year she finds a snake’s skin shed. One year, in her flower garden, another year on her deck, and this year at the bottom of the tree.
She notes, that there are no plans to disturb the snake’s presence and laughs, “I just leave it alone and hope we’ve established a boundary.”
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