Here at Staunton River Battlefield State Park, we are welcoming our newest resident, Max. He is a juvenile corn snake who will be our reptilian ambassador for the park. His name was chosen by students from Cluster Springs Elementary School in Halifax who were the first students to enjoy an education program with him.

Unfortunately, snakes get a bad reputation at times so to encourage visitors to come meet him and other snake ambassadors in the parks, we will debunk a few common myths about snakes.

Meet the new resident corn snake, his name is Max

SNAKES ARE POISONOUS

Technically speaking, very few snake species are poisonous and none of them reside in the US. Poisonous wildlife have a toxin that typically is external (on their skin) and is used as a defense mechanism. Venom, which is internal and injected into prey, can be found in some species of snakes.

Fortunately, Virginia only has three venomous species; the copperhead, cottonmouth (or water moccasin), and timber rattlesnake. All other native species in the state are non-venomous, like our corn snake.

The Virginia state snake, the eastern garter snake, is common and harmless snake

SNAKES ARE SLIMY

While reptiles and amphibians may look similar at times, one distinct difference between the two is their body type. Amphibians, such as salamanders and frogs, live in semi-aquatic environments and have wet, slimy skin. Reptiles however, have dry, scaly skin that can be smooth or sometimes bumpy. Snakes have smooth skin that they shed every few months as they grow.

So, if you’re worried that holding a snake will leave your hands a sticky mess, don’t fear!

SNAKES CHASE PEOPLE

If you’ve heard someone claim they have been chased by a snake, it could be true – but most likely not. Just like most animals, when threatened a snake will choose fight or flight. Typically, most will choose flight and will wiggle their way away from you, but sometimes your flight path and theirs might coincide which may create the illusion that the snake is chasing you.

Like most wildlife you may encounter at the parks such as birds, squirrels and deer, they want to just run away rather than try to attack. If you do happen to find a snake in the park, you can always get close enough to take pictures, but if you leave it be, you’ll be just fine.

Snakes are an important member of the ecosystem just like our other native reptiles such as lizards and turtles and they help keep the rodent population down to help stop the spread of diseases. So, thank a snake next time you see one!

Our Visitor Center is open every day from 10am-4pm where you can see our new slithery resident, Max and learn more about native snakes in Virginia.

Or you can check out your local Virginia State Park and see if they have a snake you can meet. And don’t worry – our snake is behind glass so you can ease your way into the idea of being comfortable around snakes. Our staff will be happy to answer any question you have. See a list of fun park programs here.

We don't have overnight accommodations at this park, but you can stay in cabins and campgrounds at nearby Staunton River State Park, or Occoneechee State Park. For reservations or more information call 800-933-7275.

Information about Staunton River Battlefield State Park to help plan your visit can be found here.