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Rattlesnake visits Bodie lighthouse

A timber rattlesnake made a visit to the Bodie Island Light Station last week.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Island posted photos of the snake, saying they’re generally not aggressive though will strike when threatened or deliberately provoked.

“But given room they will retreat,” the post said.

The rattlesnake photographed at the lighthouse was seen outside a park staff building near the entrance last week.

“Most snake encounters occur between the months of April and October when snakes and humans are most active outdoors,” park officials said.

The park offers the following tips to avoid interactions with snakes:
-When hiking, stick to well used trails
-Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day
-If a fallen tree or large rock is in your path, step up to it instead of over it, as there might be a snake on the other side
-Avoid approaching any snake you cannot positively identify as a safe species