Where would we be without google?

A couple of days ago, we came across this good sized (2'?) black snake at the bogs. It looked like he had very light yellow markings along his back and I believe its chin was the same light yellow color. I wish I could have checked it out better but it slithered a little and Jim gave chase. It is the one animal I can't handle him chasing. Although, I must say it's nice to no longer be worried about the venomous part (good bye dangerous rancid desert). Anyway, if I am correct in my observation (and let's face it, I am pretty good at the whole what does nature look like game) the snake is an adult Black Rat Snake. I read a little about them and as much as they will bite the hell out of you if you corner them, that is where it ends. Yay. A smattering of info says they are endangered and if that is true, this find is super exciting to me.

Today, while chasing frogs, I heard another slither. Thinking it might be the black snake offering me a better view, I got a good hold of Jim's collar and headed toward the sound. Not the Black Rat Snake. Since this time didn't include becoming hysterical, running and screaming after Jim, I got a really good look at this dude. After a little searching I am positive it is a Northern Water Snake and not the dreaded Copperhead. As you can see, I am not as paranoid as I think you think I am. These snakes are super similar and are often mistaken for one another meaning the harmless Northern Water Snakes has a sad little plight...

Copperhead


Northern Water Snake


I forgot my camera again. There is this big mud puddle and it is FULL of little tiny polliwogs. I'm taking my camera next time. Hopefully I can get a picture of the snakes and I will also take some shots of this puddle. It is to cool not to share.