Rattlesnake Carcass Found in Wood Oaks Green Park (VIDEO)

NORTHBROOK, IL — Police are advising residents around Wood Oaks Green Park to watch out for possible rattlesnakes after the body of one was found in the area, according to a village press release.

The carcass of a 3-foot-2-inch rattlesnake was found Sunday, Aug. 7, near the brush area by the entrance of the park, 1150 Sanders Road. The body was identified as an albino western diamondback rattlesnake by representatives from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the village stated.

Because these species of rattlesnakes aren't indigenous to the area, officials believe the snake's owner released the reptile into the wild locally. While the alert did not indicate if there were signs of more snakes, the village does advise park visitors to stay on sidewalks and trails and avoid brush areas.

Found in the southern United States from central Arkansas to central California, as well as in Mexico, these venomous snakes are blamed for most of the snakebite fatalities in both countries. Although its venom isn't as toxic compared to other species of rattlesnakes, the western diamondback makes up for it in the pure volume of poison it can deliver in single bite.

If residents see rattlesnake, they should not try to capture it. Instead, they should leave the area immediately and call 911.

PHOTO: Albino western diamondback rattlesnake (Dawson | Wikimedia Commons)

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