Creepy 'Zombie Snake' That Acts Dead Found Throughout PA

If you comes across what appears to be a lifeless snake in the woods this summer, be aware that it could be very much alive. North Carolina officials have alerted residents about a creepy snake that also can be found in Pennsylvania - the eastern hognose snake, nicknamed the "zombie snake" because it acts like it's dead when threatened.

Here's how the snake is described by the Pennsylvania Fish and Game Commission:

"If approached, the hognose snake may attempt to fool the intruder by rolling over and "playing dead," a profile of the snake states on the commission website. "A few convulsive jerks may first set the stage and then with mouth agape and tongue hanging out, the performance ends with the body frozen in place. If picked up, the snake suddenly goes limp. But returned upright to the ground it again quickly rolls over on its back, apparently forgetting it is 'dead.'"

The snakes, which are not poisonous, can be found throughout the state.

"In Pennsylvania, the eastern hognose snake resides in a major portion of the state, although it is not found in abundant numbers," the commission website stated. "Adult sizes vary from 18 to 45 inches."

The commission commended the snakes on their acting ability, stating, "If awards in various categories were given to snakes, the easternhognose snake would win hands down for "most dramatic performance."