C.T.J. - N. Watersnake Traditional Cache
-allenite-: As there's been no response from the cache owner to my previous note, I'm archiving it to keep it from continually showing up in search lists and to prevent it from blocking other cache placements. Please note that if geocaches are archived by a reviewer or Geocaching HQ for lack of maintenance, they are not eligible for unarchival.
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This cache is place out on the Heritage Nature trail located behind the Carl T Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center. (B.Y.O.P.) Be sure to visit the museum (free of charge) and sign the logbook. Make a note that you were at the center geocaching. You do need a recreational passport on your liscense to park at the Carl T. however.
Currently in Michigan there are 18 different species of snakes; they include : The Kirkland's snake, Copper bellied water snake, Northern Water snake, Queen snake, Brown snake, Northern Red bellied snake, Eastern Garter snake, Bulter's Garter snake, Northern Ribbon snake, Northern Ring-necked snake, Eastern Hog-nosed snake, Blue Racer, Black Rat snake, Eastern Fox snake, Western Fox snake, Eastern Milk snake, Smooth Green snake, and the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. The only snake in Michigan that is venomous however is the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. (Note: The Eastern and Western Fox snakes until recently were classified as the same specie.)
The Northern Water snake (Nerodia Sipedon) has dark bands or blotches on a light brown or gray background color. Some adult snakes may often appear solid black or brown. Their belly is white with reddish half moon markings. Some specimans may have an orange belly with black or brown speckles. An adult water snake is roughly 24" to 55" in length. (The adult males are on a average smaller than the females.)
The Northern Water snake is found throughout the lower peninsula and the eastern part of the upper peninsula of Michigan. They live along shorelines of lakes, ponds, marshes, bogs, swamps, or streams. They swim extremely well, seeking food and safety in the water. These snakes are known to be able to stay submerged underwater for over an hour if neccessary to avoid an enemy. The Northern Water snake will often bask in the sunlight on objects that overhang the waters surface. They are most active during daylight hours in the spring and fall but may adopt nocturnal habits during mid summer. Over most of the Great Lakes range, these snakes will hibernate from mid October thru April, (often in groups) in mammel burrows, rock crevices, overbank root systems, or other sheltered areas near their summer habitat.
Courtship and mating of the Northern Water snake occurs in the spring from mid April to mid June, on land or in the water. The courting male will crawl over the female, matching her body position and movements while rubbing his chin along her back. It is not uncommon to have 2 or more males courting one female at the same time. After mating the female will give birth to 4 - 99 (15 - 40 most common) live 7" - 9" young. As babies these snakes are gray or brown with bold black bands.
The Diet of the Northern Water snake consists mainly of small fish or minnows. They will also eat frogs, tadpoles, aquatic salamanders, and crayfish. At times they may also eat insects and earthworms but this is mostly when they are young.
The Northern Water snake is NOT venomous and is sometimes mistakely called the "Water Moccasin" which is not a native snake to Michigan. These snake can be aggressive if cornered and have been known to strike in defense if attempted to be handled by individuals.
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Congrats to the Top 3 Cachers:
Tim and Trish = First To Find
Ranger 4 + 1 = 2nd to find
U R HERE = 3rd to find
Additional Hints
(No hints available.)