Saving One Snake…and a Dozen More

When staff members noticed a black rat snake on the road acting a bit strangely, not moving off the road even when approached or gently encouraged, they took the time to contact a wildlife rehabilitator and find out what to do. Once the snake was safe with the rehabber, an exam revealed a few small abrasions and an abnormally mellow snake.

Given a few days of supportive care, the snake came around and the rehabber found a little surprise … or 12! It seems that the patient was a gravid female. “Gravid” reptiles are carrying eggs and are typically in this state immediately prior to laying them.

Black rat snakes typically lay 10 – 14 eggs in June or July beneath rocks, rotting vegetation, stumps or logs and generally hatch in August and September.

Did you know, like many reptiles, black rat snakes do not take part in incubation or raising their young.

Interesting fact: While not found in the Teatown area, mother rattlesnakes provide protection and may stay with her young for a short period, typically until their first shed! Learn More. 

The snake has now fully recovered and was released back to the location she was found where she can continue to be the best pest control around! In 58-62 days her young will be returned to the same location.

If you find injured wildlife, lists of wildlife rehabbers can be found from NY DEC and Animal Help Now.

9/9/2025 UPDATE: Baby news! Remember the injured black rat snake we helped earlier this summer? Surprise—she was a mom-to-be! Thanks to a wildlife rehabilitator, her eggs hatched and a dozen tiny snakelets were just released back into the wild where they belong.

Black rat snakes are incredible natural pest control, and we’re thrilled to see this mama’s story come full circle!