• Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Linkedin
  • Skip to main content

New England Public Radio

  • Donate
  • National Public Radio
  • Public Radio International
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
Timber rattlesnakes will be moved onto Mt. Zion Island in Quabbin Reservoir.
(Photo Credit: via Wikimedia Commons by Rkillcrazy)

State: Rattlesnakes On Quabbin Reservoir Island Will Be No Risk To People

by: Jha'nai RichardsonFebruary 3, 2016

A state plan to relocate endangered rattlesnakes to an island in the Quabbin Reservoir faces opposition from nearby residents. Published reports say some are concerned the venomous timber rattlesnakes will leave Mount Zion island and bite hikers.

Tom French of Mass Wildlife says there’s nothing to worry about.

“These snakes will, in 100 years, are going to remain on the island,” French says. “They’re going to pose absolutely zero risk to the public and the public will simply not have a chance to see them because everywhere they will be is already restricted to public access.”

Mass Wildlife says the protected habitat will provide a spot in Massachusetts where the timber rattlesnakes can avoid people. The snakes are now completely gone from Maine and Rhode Island.

Keywords: Maine, Mass Wildlife, Massachusetts, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, NEPR News, New Salem, Quabbin Reservoir, Rhode Island, Timber Rattlesnake, Tom French

Previous

‹Eagleton School Addresses Physical Abuse Charges

Next

‘Trumpertantrum’: Trump Says Cruz Cheated In Iowa, Wants Results Overturned›

  • Listen Online
  • HD Radio
  • Mobile, iPhone & Android
  • Reception FAQs
  • Five College Consortium
  • Springfield Central Cultural District
  • National Public Radio
  • Public Radio International
  • University of Massachusetts
  • Amherst College
  • Mount Holyoke College
  • Smith College
  • Hampshire College
  • Five Colleges Incorporated
  • Springfield Central Cultural District

© 2022 New England Public Radio