Herp Report: New Jersey trying to change the image of snakes

We all know snakes get a bad rap. Tell a stranger you love snakes, and you're usually rewarded with a cringe. But the state of New Jersey is trying to change that, and save native wildlife at the same time. From the New Jersey Newsroom:

The Venomous Snake Response Team uses facts and understanding to help people overcome their fear and loathing. This cuts both ways — sympathizing with peoples' fears while helping them see the world from a snake's-eye point of view. New Jersey has 22 species of snakes. Of these, only two are venomous: the timber rattlesnake and northern copperhead. Snakes are a vital link in the food chain; they help control insect and rodent populations and, in turn, provide food for raccoons, bears, coyotes, hawks and owls. Snake populations have long been on the decline in New Jersey due to factors like road traffic, destruction of habitat, pollution, human persecution and snake collectors, to name but a few. As development encroaches on snake habitat, people find themselves living on top of the pathways snakes have used for centuries to travel between dens and foraging areas. Some new developments have been built right on denning sites! Despite wildlife laws prohibiting killing, collecting or harassing native snakes, fear drives many people to kill them. Non-venomous species like northern water snakes are often mistaken for venomous varieties, increasing the fear factor.

Here's to one state taking a proactive stance on education!