Wild Encounter: Hiker Discovers Massive Snake Near South Carolina Creek – ‘What A Beast!
In a recent excursion at Florence’s Jeffries Creek Park, a hiker made a captivating discovery – an enormous snake that left onlookers in awe.
Meredith Langley, the hiker, couldn’t contain her excitement about the snake-like creature she encountered, as she shared her experience with the South Carolina Hiking club on Facebook. She marveled at how seamlessly the snake blended into its natural surroundings, emphasizing the importance of this encounter as a teaching opportunity for her children.
In her Facebook post, Langley remarked, “This was a good teaching opportunity and example for my own kids who forget not to run ahead of me on trails!”
The identified snake was determined to be a brown water snake (Nerodia genus) by Greg Lucas, a biologist with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Lucas clarified that while water snakes might appear larger due to their thick, muscular bodies, they typically reach a length of 30 to 60 inches.
Langley, accustomed to the wildlife in the area, mentioned encountering copperhead snakes on their weekly hikes. Water snakes and water moccasins are prevalent in the region, according to her observations.
Describing the snake she encountered, Langley estimated it to be at least four feet long when fully extended. Notably, she emphasized the creature’s calm demeanor, stating, “It watched me with stillness and reserve, and without aggression or fear. That told me that this creature knew with certainty that it was capable of defending itself if needed, but it need not exert that energy unnecessarily.”
Langley expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the impressive snake and highlighted the importance of respecting wildlife in their natural habitats. She concluded by saying, “That area is its home, not ours, and my children and I maintain that respect and reverence anytime we are out in nature.”
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