Islip, NY - June 12, 2014 - The Suffolk County SPCA is reminding residents to be careful of reptiles found in the wild and not to touch or approach them.
Yesterday a 16 year old Islip youth was bitten by a King Snake after it was found outside by the youth's mother who was cleaning the pool. When he went to grab the snake he was bitten. Although King Snakes are not venomous, their bites are painful and can become infectioned.
Chief Roy Gross of the Suffolk County SPCA said that last week, a Yaphank man was bitten by a baby alligator that was abandoned near his back yard. "We had 20 alligators last year plus other reptiles. It's a crime to abandon reptiles & animals," Gross said.
If you spot a reptile, please do not try to touch or handle it. Call professionals, like the Suffolk County SPCA or DEC who can handle these animals and get them to proper sanctuaries.
Anyone who sees an abandoned reptile is asked to call the Suffolk County SPCA at 631-382-7722. All calls will be kept confidential.