Warning: Large Non-Poisonous Snake Spotted at Congers Lake, Give Space During Prime Season

If you plan on exploring Congers Lake in Rockland County, be aware that a large snake has been spotted recently, causing visitors to feel uneasy. Officials believe it is likely an eight-foot black rat snake, which feeds primarily on rodents but also consumes frogs and birds. Although they are not poisonous and do not pose any threat to humans, wildlife experts advise giving them space as the weather cools down during this time of year. The Town of Clarkstown shared a post on Facebook explaining that it is prime season for these snakes to emerge from hibernation, with their feeding habits consisting mainly of mice, voles, birds, and eggs. It was recently reported by SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry that eastern rat snakes can consume over 100 rodents in a year. The reptile has shiny black scales on its back, while the throat and chin are white with a head wider than the neck and body. Eastern rat snakes reside mainly around suburban communities from Connecticut to South Carolina where they live near fields, woodlands, farmlands or other suburbs. Predators of these species include hawks and various snake types. The breeding season for eastern rat snakes is between May and late June when male snakes search for females while fighting off competition. Despite being shy creatures that freeze at the sight of danger during summertime, they produce a strong foul odor to deter predators or humans who may pose as threats. Black rat snakes are New York’s largest snake species with seventeen different types found in the state; garter and water snakes being the most widespread and frequently encountered ones.