JB's Tales from the Trail. : A visit to Snake Road....

Had an opportunity on Wednesday October 8th to visit Snake Road near Wolf Lake, IL. It was a beautiful day to walk the 5 mile round trip. Got started about 9 but snake sightings were slow as the day was still cool and the road shady as the temps were around 57. Finally about noon as it warmed into the upper 60's I came across a beautiful Western Ribbon snake, a first for me, lying in the road. He was kind enough to allow some photos. A short time later a Black Racer crossed just in front of me, never pausing long enough for a photo. I took a brief break to let the day continue to warm, and warm it did rising into the upper 70's, perfect snake day. As I started down the road a second time, I quickly came across a Rough Green Snake. Just down the road further was a Yellow-bellied Water Snake, and a few steps later a Western Cottonmouth. A Black Rat snake a little later wrapped up my sightings. I hated to leave as it seemed the snakes were just starting to move but with a long drive ahead of me I had to go. Can't wait til next opportunity to go.