Photo by Kathy and Tom Michell Timber rattlesnakes are large and stocky, measuring from three to 4.5 feet in length. Their broad triangular heads feature two elliptical pupils and two thermal pits between the eyes and the nostrils, used to detect warm-blooded prey, primarily rodents. Two common color patterns are found, a yellow phase and a black phase, both of which feature dark crossbands.

A docile demeanor

Unlike their fearsome reputation, rattlesnakes are actually very docile in nature, according to regional wildlife rehabilitator Kathy Michell, whose extensive work with reptiles and eagles has led her to conclude, “The timber rattlesnake is part of our heritage. It’s exciting that we still have such top level predators in our midst.”

She is supported in her assessment by other experts in the field.

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Siptroth holds Green Living Fair

SHAWNEE-ON-DELAWARE, PA—Pennsylvania State Rep. John Siptroth (D-Monroe/Pike) will hold his third annual Green Living Fair from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 22 at the Shawnee Inn, Shawnee-on-Delaware. The free event is open to the public.

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All about wild mushrooms

Identifying wild mushrooms

LIBERTY, NY—David Fischer, author and expert on the ecology and identification of wild mushrooms, will present a day-long workshop on mushroom identification on Saturday, August 21 at Cornell Cooperative Extension on Ferndale Loomis Road. Part of the day will be in the woods putting your new knowledge to work mushroom hunting.

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Also in this issue:

• 4-H teen group invites new members
• Workshop on deer habitat management