Photos by Kathy and Tom Michell Timber rattlesnakes are poikilothermic, meaning that their body temperature depends largely on the temperature of their surroundings. They seek sunny locations to regulate body temperature and aid digestion. Gravid, or pregnant, females bask in the sun to develop their embryos. This increases their vulnerability and visibility to humans.

A 'perfect 10'

Some animals are highly adaptable and can survive or even thrive in a variety of habitats. Not so the timber rattlesnake, whose needs are very specific, resulting in a limited pool of possibilities for dens, called hibernacula, and basking locations.

Rattlesnakes show great loyalty for such sites (some have existed for centuries), making successful relocation extremely challenging. Depth, temperature, moisture content, tree canopy and access to prey are just some of the factors defining successful den locations.

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Nature walk to explore rare bog habitat

THOMPSON, PA—Matthew Purdy, Environmental Education Coordinator at Salt Springs State Park, will guide a Wetlands Conservation walk at Florence Shelly Wetlands Preserve on Sunday, September 12, at 2 pm.

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A day of family fun at Varden Conservation Day

GREENTOWN, PA — Promised Land State Park will hold its first annual Varden Conservation Day on Saturday, September 11 from 11 am to 3 pm. The day will include family activities such as making homemade ice cream, fiddle music, a history of the Varden area, a fishing contest for kids under 16 and more.

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Also in this issue:

• Boat safety course to be offered