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As Heavy Rains Remain In Panhandle, Be Careful Of Reptiles Appearing In Flooded Areas

Florida Pine Snake
Chad Weber
/
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Facebook

As heavy rain continues throughout parts of the Florida Panhandle, state wildlife officials are asking area residents to be careful of some reptiles that may appear due to flooding.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation commission officials say native wildlife—like alligators and snakes—may be seen in frequently flooded areas.

So, it’s important residents remember to keep their distance and give these reptiles and other wildlife their space.

Residents may come across Florida pine snakes, which are native to parts of the Panhandle.

They’re large and tend to inflate and hiss very loudly when disturbed. While pine snakes are nonvenomous, officials say their bite is very painful. So, the best thing to do is leave them alone.

For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.

Sascha Cordner has more than ten years of public radio experience. It includes working at NPR member station WUFT-FM in Gainesville for several years. She's worked in both radio and TV, serving in various capacities as a reporter, producer and anchor. She's also a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in telecommunications. She is the recipient of 15 awards from the Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), and Edward R. Murrow. Her award-winning stories include her coverage on the infamous “Dozier School for Boys” and a feature titled "Male Breast Cancer: Lost in the Sea of Pink." Currently, Sascha serves as the host and producer of local and state news content for the afternoon news program "All Things Considered" at WFSU. Sascha primarily covers criminal justice and social services issues. When she's not reporting, Sascha likes catching up on her favorite TV shows, singing and reading. Follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter:@SaschaCordner.