Knowing those things above as I do, as I go to the barn each day from this time of year through early November, I always check around including each stall. I always make my inspection of the stalls before walking in because if a poisonous snake is in the corner, I would have to go by him to get out and they can be from time to time very aggressive. Well, yesterday was one of those days when there were three snakes with two in one stall and another, much smaller in the next one over. The sun was hot so they escaped it to keep their body temperature regulated as they were lying on the pine shavings. The two large ones were involved with some kind of sensual kabuki dance while writhing together and I realized it was the mating dance. Then they saw me and disappeared over to the stall where the third, smaller snake was lying. Curious, I walked around to the other doorway and peered in. The two larger snakes ignored him, doing their thing as taught by nature and all was quiet for a moment. But what was going to happen? I wanted to know so I kept watching with curiosity.
A few minutes later, the smaller snake began to slither toward the larger ones and ingratiated himself to their writhing mass. All was well for awhile until the big male stopped and looked back at the little snake. The little guy looked up and held his ground and finally BAM!!!!! The big snake struck him with rapid speed and then slowly swallowed the little snake head first and I watched until the final wiggling tip of the poor snake's tail went down the hatch.
So what is the moral of this true little tale. Well, it's this. Don't be the little guy on a farm for it doesn't work out too well. But of even more importance is this. Snake or human, don't interrupt the snake mating call. It won't be something you will ever want to do again unless you use stealth and have a weapon or shovel in your hands. And a mistake would likely cost you a couple of days in intensive care with a lot of pain and suffering and a big fat medical bill. Now having said that, I still will take farm life over the city any day, for the rewards of peace and quiet and the scenic serenity along the way always makes it worthwhile. I will gladly recommend, however, to each his own. God bless you all and have a glorious day. Just another day, down on the farm.