Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Well just moved to florida 4 months ago and been looking for snakes. I have been looking in Lido park sarasota. Well I found a nice Diamondback around 5' went back to get my camera and it was gone I know where it went so it will probably be back seeing how it was a perfect basking spot. I will get a pic the next time. I wanted to catch it but I honestly chickened out this was the 1st venomous snake that I have found.
Funny thing though this park is small and is surrounded by ocean on 3 sides and develpoment on the fourth. I found this snake about 10 feet from the street. Lots of people walk the trails in this park. Surprised nobody has got hurt yet. I also see at least 2 black racers in this park every time I go. I wish I had got a picture what a beautiful snake.

Lots of people walk the trails in this park. Surprised nobody has got hurt yet.

The SNAKE is most likely to get hurt!
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Chris McMartin
www.mcmartinville.com
I'm Not a Herpetologist, but I Play One on the Internet

True people are usually afraid of what they dont know about. Friend of mine tells me that even the park rangers will kill rattlesnakes on sight to protect ignorant people from getting bitten. It still suprises me that there are Diamondbacks in this little park though.

I don't think that "chickend out" would be the correct term. I see venomous snakes all the time and chase them off the road, but I have never tried to pick one up. The consquences just don't out way the benifit. Sure it would be cool to pick up one of these guys, but have you ever seen the effects of rattle snake venom on a human? Not pretty. I would try and get a good picture of the snake and leave well enough alone. If you must pick it up, know what you are doing. Practice on non-ven. first. Just my 2 cents
By the way I have yet to see a rattle snake. So I'm envious of your success. Happy herping.