better a snake than a mouse

I have a compost bin close to the house that I used last winter. When It was full I just closed it off and I plan to use the compost next fall when it's finished (I hope). Being lazy, I left it alone, but about a month ago I opened the bin to see how it was doing. The level had gone down nicely but there were a few clumps of paper on top that I felt should be turned over (my idea of turning a pile).
I picked up one clump and there was the cutest little baby snake only a few inches long curled up and staring at me with horror. I carefully covered the baby and closed the bin again. The next time I open it I'll let the cover stand open a while to give any snakes warning that a monster is coming to mess up their refuge.

Claire, who doesn't mind snakes so long as they keep their distance.

Could be worse..

"There's a snake in my...."

;-)

Lloyd

Better a snake in the composter than a composter in the snake. A snake big enough to swaller a composter... that's a snake to fear.

tj

I hear they taste like chicken ;-)

"I hear they taste like chicken ;-)"

The snake or the composter?

Fear of nature's critters seems to be pandemic. Try learning more about snakes, which ones live in your area (try the state department of conservation or natural resources website), the many benefits of snakes, etc. You might come to appreciate them.

jamb, if you're that much in fear of snakes, gardening is probably not for you. I very often see snakes in my garden. Mostly non-venomous species, but copperheads every once in a while. Most memorable was the copperhead neatly coiled up under the oregano I was cutting for supper!
They are there in your yard whether you compost or not, whether you like it or not.

And most likely 98% of them are harmless. The most common in many areas of the US is the garter snake, or striped garden snake. They are at least as intimidated by you as you are by them.

"And most likely 98% of them are harmless."

And the other 2% eat your a$$ whole!!

;-)

Lloyd

Lots of garter snakes in my yard, I enjoy them except for when they scare me by moving when I didn't know they were there. Now poisonous snakes I wouldn't like, but I have yet to see one.
P.S. You all are silly ;D

I agree with someone above who said better a snake than a mouse.