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.