Seen crossing the road near the Appomattox River bridge. Fifth lifer (second alive) and second county record, but first one to be photographed in Appomattox. Definitely one of my favorite snake encounters of the year.
About 18-22 inches long, very shiny scales. Shook his tail at me. Found on a gravel driveway.
MEGA FIND! Found resting on log in possible vernal pool during Virginia Master Naturalist walk through the Prince Edward-Gallion State Forest. One of the farthest western records for Virginia and a county first for Prince Edward. Also, possibly one of the earliest observation dates in the state, with a previous record being February 19. One of the best herps of the year for central Virginia. Observed by Evan S, Ty S, Al L, Betsy L, & Regina S.
Update - The same individual was found in a separate vernal pool about 2,000 feet east of this location on February 11, 2020.
My Obs: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/40568726
Ty's Obs: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/38548072
Female with eggs!
Poor phone photo, didn't want to disturb it or the sensitive habitat too much.