BEWARE of ME

This was one of the most dangerous situations I have ever placed myself in, to get an image up close. I saw a snake emerging from the brush... more

by Karen Wiles

Title

BEWARE of ME

Artist

Karen Wiles

Medium

Photograph

Description

This was one of the most dangerous situations I have ever placed myself in, to get an image up close. I saw a snake emerging from the brush crossing the road and ran up eagerly to focus in on his head. Being in Florida and seeing how big the snake was, I made the assumption it was a python. (wrong assumption!!!) At the time, I didn't think this type of snake would bite, only squeeze. I was about 6' away from the snake when his tail finally emerged and my husband who was watching from the car began yelling that the snake had rattles! He was actually an Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, and the absolute largest snake I have ever seen, well over 8 and a half foot long... I had no idea I had come upon one of the most dangerous snakes in the world. My husband said it was the fastest he had ever seen me run. He said my feet never touched the pavement!!! Rest assured, I ran away from this snake a lot faster than I had approached him!
I have always been curious about the reflection shown on the pavement in the center of his head. I have often wondered if this was a bullet hole where someone had attempted to kill this enormous snake and failed.

Uploaded

November 11th, 2011