You Won’t Believe Where These Snakes Are Showing Up in Ottawa County

While it’s always wise to stay alert when you’re wandering through the great Michigan outdoors, most people don’t expect to look up and see a snake above them. But in Ottawa County, there’s a chance you might spot a snake dangling above you.

No, it’s not a prank.They are a harmless local snake that’s just hanging out trying to mind their own business, too.

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Now that the weather is warming up, there have been reports of residents in Ottawa County spotting snakes in the trees. This photo shared to the Ottawa County Parks and Rec page has unlocked a new nightmare inside of me:

If you see one, you shouldn’t worry. These snakes are likely the blue racer snake (Coluber constrictor foxii), a blue and black nonvenomous species native to Michigan. Blue Racers generally like open sunny spaces, but sometimes will find themselves in tree lines and bushes to escape predators.

Most of the time when you spot a snake in your neighborhood, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says you shouldn’t worry. In fact, 17 of the 18 snake species in our state are harmless to humans.

Plus, Snakes typically avoid human contact and will not attack unless provoked. Most of the time, snake bites occur when individuals attempt to handle or harass them. So mind ya business, and you’ll have a good time.

If you encounter a snake in a tree or elsewhere, it’s best to observe it from a distance and allow it to move on its own. These snakes are an essential part of the local ecosystem, and their presence indicates a healthy environment.

Up Next: The Deadly 7: Michigan's Most Venomous and Poisonous Threats ⬇️

So, while the idea of snakes in trees might be scary if you’re not a fan, there’s no need for you to worry. They’re just a friendly neighbor who is going on about their day. So, just wave hi and carry on because they’re not looking for any trouble. (Honestly, they’re kind of cute.)