Missouriland

12

MISSOURILAND

Slither Town

Every fall, snakes migrate across Snake Road in the Shawnee National Forest

Words and photos by REUBEN HEMMER

Nestled between LaRue Swamp and towering limestone cliffs within the Shawnee National Forest is Forest Road No. 345. For most of the year, it is open to all forms of tra c, but in the spring and autumn months the road is closed to vehicles, and recognized by its other name: Snake Road. During these transitional months, the 2.5-mile stretch of road becomes a major route of passage for the over 23 species of snakes and other amphibians who call this easternmost area of the Ozarks home. In the fall, snakes such as cottonmouth, copperheads and rattlesnakes venture from LaRue Swamp into the ancient limestone bluffs for their winter quarters. As the weather warms in the spring, the snakes cross the road once more to return to the swamp for their summer sojourn.

Although the road is closed to vehicles during these migratory periods, foot tra c is welcome. Snake enthusiasts, biologists and adventure seekers travel from all over the country to witness this natural wonder, and the chances of seeing these snakes are high. Within the first two minutes of arriving, we saw a snake cross directly in front of us, and many more followed. A group of students from Carbondale, Illinois, said they saw 13 snakes within an hour. The area also hosts many other species of wildlife, such as armadillos, vultures and deer. Tampering with or collecting any of the animals is strictly forbidden, and patrols enforce these rules to protect the ecosystem. It is also wise to watch your step, and stick to the trail — the majority of these snakes are venomous. n

A CELEBRATION OF THE UNIQUE AND FASCINATING ASPECTS OF OUR HOME[ ]