A massive snake was recently spotted by a hiker at Jeffries Creek Park in Florence, South Carolina. The enormous reptile was discovered by Meredith Langley, who couldn’t help but share her incredible encounter on social media.
Langley’s Facebook post, shared with the South Carolina Hiking club, described the snake’s impressive size and its ability to blend seamlessly into its natural habitat. She wrote, “This was a great teaching opportunity for my kids, reminding them not to run ahead of me on trails!”
According to Greg Lucas, a biologist with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the snake is a brown water snake, a non-venomous species. Lucas explained that water snakes have thick, muscular bodies, making them appear larger than they actually are. On average, water snakes grow to be between 30 and 60 inches in length.
Langley, who regularly hikes in the area with her children, reported that they often encounter copperhead snakes. She noted that water snakes and water moccasins are also common in the region. Langley estimated that the snake she saw was at least four feet long when fully extended. She described the beast as “completely unafraid of us,” displaying a calm demeanor without any aggression or fear.
Langley reflected on the encounter, saying, “It watched me with stillness and reserve, and without aggression or fear. That told me that this creature knew with certainty that it was capable of defending itself if needed, but it need not exert that energy unnecessarily.” She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to observe the massive snake and respectfully retreated, acknowledging that the area is the snake’s home, not theirs.
Langley’s encounter serves as a reminder to respect and appreciate wildlife, recognizing the importance of preserving their natural habitats.
