Every year at this time, the United States Forest Service closes Snake Road in Union county to vehicle traffic. This is for the safety so that the many species of reptiles, including snakes, can safely cross the gravel road from their winter dens in the rocks, to the swamps to feed. The area is a part of a Federally protected Research Natural Area and as such, many scientists visit the area. One Herpetologist from Cal Poly University in San Luis Obispo California, recently spent some time at the site studying how snakes are coping with environmental changes. He also used the visit to remind others that snakes play a vital service by keeping rodent numbers low, therefore keeping flea–borne diseases in check. Another recent visitor from suburban Chicago came to snake road to enjoy the tremendous variety of snakes and other reptiles. And he's been making this annual trip for the last 25 years. According to the United States Forest Service, which oversees the area, over 1,200 species of plants and animals make the area there home. In addition to the 25 snake species documented, 173 types of birds can be found at Snake Road. The road will re–open to vehicle traffic in mid May.
To learn more about the area visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5106391.pdf
