water snakes

[Peteyd]

Just thought I'd post my own experience with the northern water snake. I have taken the time to somewhat educate myself on the snakes of our region and everything I read about the water snake said they are harmless. Today my dog was bit behind the ear near the boat launch. I have seen water snakes at Pine Meadow lake in southern Harriman and they are not afraid to aproach a swimmer. My dog was bit IN the water, not poking his head in any caves or holes. He was just swimming along and bam! Be cautious.

[JohnandSue]

Please remember that there are Copperheads and Rattlesnakes in Minnewaska and both inhabit the waters. Unless you are a snake expert (Herpetologist) please treat all snakes as poisinous. Also many people bitten by "harmless" snakes die from infection and even rabies.