CALGARY HERALD (Alberta) 12 April 05 Volunteers set out to make Weaselhead safe for snake den
City conservation staff are working to protect a newly discovered garter snake winter den in the Weaselhead.
The den, called a hibernaculum, houses an unknown number of the red-sided garter snakes, which are considered a sensitive species in Alberta.
Brent Johner, president of the Weaselhead Society, said volunteers have been staking out the site to prevent inadvertent or malicious damage to the den.
"The hibernaculum was discovered when five boys who were out to kill snakes were chased out of the area," Johner said. "We want to prevent anyone from getting in there and trampling the snakes or riding their bikes over them."
The area will need to be protected as the snakes continue coming out of hibernation, Johner said, which will be up to city authorities.
One of the largest hibernacula in Fish Creek Park is located in a heavily travelled area and is enclosed by a 3.5-metre metal mesh fence.
Dave Elphinstone, natural area management co-ordinator for the City of Calgary, said the site would be protected in a way that allows the snakes free movement. He said there are at least two other den sites in the area.
Garter snakes are harmless to humans.