Dry conditions may mean more snake sightings, experts say

The ongoing drought could bring danger slithering right into your yard.

The dry conditions mean the most venomous snakes in Central Florida are on the move.

Herpetologist Bob Cross said low water levels in many lakes and swamps means snake sightings are more likely to happen in neighborhoods.

“It’s very frightening to think that they’re that they’re that close to a house,” said Longwood resident Candy Bauer.

She found a water moccasin in her backyard last night and called Cross to move the animal.

“Usually when people saw that, it’s a harmless water snake. But in this case, the lady was right,” said Cross.

He said the dry weather is forcing the cottonmouth water moccasin and other snakes to seek water elsewhere.

“It doesn’t have to be water near where the snake it. He’s going to be traveling like the gators,” Cross said.

The snake found in Bauer’s yard will be sent to a facility in DeLand which will use it to produce anti-venom.

Cox Media Group