Largest Venomous Snake in New York Slithers onto Home’s Porch
A Hudson Valley homeowner was shocked to find the largest venomous snake in New York on the homeowner's front porch.
On Thursday, The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced ECO Jeff Cox received a call from a concerned homeowner in Copake reporting a large rattlesnake on their front porch on June 20.
The homeowner sent pictures of the pit viper, confirming it was a timber rattlesnake, officials say. Timber rattlesnakes are the largest venomous snake in New York and listed as a threatened species, according to the DEC.
The rattlesnake appeared to come and go over the weekend before slithering under the house, causing the homeowner to worry it was taking up residence there.
Members of DEC's Division of Law Enforcement consulted with wildlife staff and decided to trap and relocate the rattlesnake. After a few unsuccessful attempts, ECO Cox wrangled the rattlesnake into a container on the morning of June 24.
The rattlesnake was transported to a location in the Taconic Mountains, which is a known den site and released unharmed, the DEC reports. The homeowner expressed great appreciation that the unwanted guest was removed from their residence, officials say.