Snake Migration Closes Road In Southern Illinois

WOLF LAKE, IL — The aptly named Snake Road is closed until Halloween — for cars, that is. For snakes, the road in Shawnee National Forest is wide open as the 23 species documented in the area make their way over the 2.7-mile thoroughfare to their winter habitat.

Snake Road hosts the reptilian migration every spring and fall, at which time the route is closed to vehicles to ensure safe passage for the animals, three species of which are considered threatened in Illinois, according to the Forest Service. The snakes are currently beginning their journey from LaRue Swamp to the limestone bluffs where they spend the winter.

The road closed Sept. 1, although it remains open to those traveling on foot.

“The gradual, two-month snake movement attracts people from across the country eager to witness the rich diversity of reptile and amphibian species along this single stretch of road,” according to a Forest Service news release.

Wildlife biologist Mark Vukovich said in the news release that Shawnee is “among the only areas in the U.S. to see so many different species in a small geographical area.”

“This is a biologically unique and sensitive place, and so we don’t want people trampling sensitive plants and disturbing sensitive habitats in our natural areas,” he said in a Forest Service video, advising visitors to stay on the road and call 911 if bitten by a snake.

Venomous snakes are present in the area. Hikers should move away slowly if they encounter any snake to avoid being bitten.

Snake Road is located within the federally designated LaRue-Pine Hills/Otter Pond Research Natural Area. The following regulations apply:

• The unauthorized collecting and handling of any animal species is prohibited.
• Collecting of any kind, including plants or animals, is not allowed.
• Tongs, hooks, bags or containers of any kind is prohibited.

To further protect the animals and their habitats, visitors should heed the following guidance:

• Stay on Snake Road and do not create trails.
• Don’t damage vegetation or pick wildflowers.
• Carefully replace rocks or logs if lifted.
• Do not harass or corral wildlife. Watch nature from a distance.
• Pack out garbage and dispose of it off national forest land.

For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/shawnee.