A giant snake was spotted in a New York park: what to do if you encounter one?

A huge rat snake was spotted near Congers Lake in Rockland County. The reptile greatly frightened visitors, reports Fox5.

This type of snake is usually about 1,5 m long, but can reach up to 2,4 m. As a rule, they feed on small rodents, such as rats, but they also like frogs and birds. According to wildlife experts, these snakes are not poisonous and do not pose a threat to humans.

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“Now is the best time to see these snakes. They are coming out of hibernation and the temperatures are still cool. These snakes feed on mice, voles, small birds and eggs. If you see one of them, just give it space. At this time of year, due to the weather, they will be slightly slowed down and will not harm any residents,” Clarkstown city officials wrote in a Facebook post. Read in our material, what pets you should not have in New York.

One rat snake can eat more than 100 rodents a year.

What are Rat Snakes?

Eastern rat snakes have shiny black scales on their backs and light bellies. Their throat and chin are white, and their head is wider than their neck and the rest of their body, according to the National Wildlife Federation.

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The snakes live in fields, forests, farmland and suburban communities from Connecticut to South Carolina.

When can you see them?

The typical breeding season for these reptiles lasts from May to the end of June. During this time, male snakes search for females and fight with each other for the right to mate.

Are these snakes dangerous?

Snakes are often abused by people who are afraid of them. Although they usually do not attack even when frightened, several cases of their attacks have been recorded.

Rat snakes are very shy and when they see danger they either freeze or crawl away. They emit a strong, foul odor when scared to scare off predators or humans.

How many species of snakes live in New York

Black rat snakes are the largest of the 17 species of snakes found in New York City.

The garter snake and water snake are the most common and commonly seen snakes in the state.