Freedom! Snake Released Back Into Wild By Canton Nature Center: UPDATE

CANTON, CT — Not that the snake that spent its winter indoors in Canton wasn't appreciative of the fine folks at the Roaring Brook Nature Center.

It's just that the woods are where snakes belong.

And with the weather finally cooperating, the snake is now free.

The center reported Friday, April 24, that an Eastern garter snake it housed through the winter has been released back into the wild.

The snake, identified as an Eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis), was found in November on the center’s property.

Staff decided to keep the reptile indoors after determining that late-season conditions and an approaching cold snap would reduce its chances of surviving hibernation outdoors.

The animal was housed in the center’s Wildlife Clinic at its Gracey Road facility throughout the winter.

In a public update, the center said a recent warm spell created suitable conditions for release.

“Luckily for the little one, that recent warm week was the perfect time to release it back where it was found,” the center said. “And it looks like it knew exactly where it wanted to go.”

The Roaring Brook Nature Center regularly provides care for injured or vulnerable wildlife and releases animals back into their natural habitat when conditions permit.

From March 5: 'Say 'Hello' To Canton Nature Center's Little Friend'