Rattlesnake Warning Issued in New Jersey

NBC New York Stamm

Police in New Jersey warned residents not to approach endangered rattlesnakes turning up in the community.

Manchester Township police shared photos of timber rattlesnakes on Facebook after receiving several confirmed sightings in the Roosevelt City section of the Ocean County town of Whiting.  

“Do NOT approach a rattlesnake!” urged police. “The timber rattlesnake is basically a passive animal, but can become defensive when threatened. Because rattlesnakes view humans as predators, your prolonged presence could encourage a defensive strike.”

The rattlers, which are venemous, turn up this time of year as the reptiles seek to mate, executive director/president of Herpetological Associates, Inc. Robert Zappalorti told police.

If you spot a rattler – they are normally prevalent in Roosevelt City, Fox Hollow and Timber Green, according to police – you should stay a safe distance away since the snakes “can strike at a distance up to 1/2 their body length.”

Police also point out that the rattlers (click here to learn more about the snakes) are protected under the state’s Endangered Species Act so you shouldn’t even get very close.

If you spot a rattler, call 1-877-WARN-DEP to talk to a biologist, said police. If you’re bitten, call 911 immediately.

Source: Rattlesnake Warning Issued in New Jersey | NBC New York http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Timber-Rattlesnakes-Manchester-Township-387905312.html#ixzz4FAiNydf5
Follow us: @nbcnewyork on Twitter | NBCNewYork on Facebook

10 thoughts on “Rattlesnake Warning Issued in New Jersey

  1. I have noticed a marked increase in the once rare Two legged Rattler in our area! To date oui have received no warning….?!

  2. The only poisonous snakes around there are politicians

    I heard if you cut the heads off the body still try’s to take way your rights

  3. All snakes are endangered around me. I do not discriminate. These guys are just on their way to Philadelphia and the DNC.

  4. Endangered? Ya like the gators here in Fl. The idiots will protect them until many, many people are hurt or killed by them and then it’s an epidemic…

  5. “If you’re bitten, call 911 immediately.”

    Absolutely. That way you won’t suffer an agonizing death.

    The pigs will show up and shoot you… to prevent that.

Join the Conversation

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


*