202 Staten Island Association of Arts and Sciences 



suddenly and jarred the floor, the snake would hiss loudly after 

 the manner of the species of Pituophis. He finally succeeded in 

 catching the snake outside of its secure retreat, and killed it 

 promptly. 



Pine snakes are said to be generally cross, but the present indi- 

 vidual as well as the two others that I have picked up, have not 

 been more so than the average garter snake. They certainly 

 should not be destroyed as is generally the custom, for between 

 forest fires and the general habit of killing all snakes, they are 

 fast becoming scarce. While they eat eggs, birds, and young 

 rabbits, they also destroy mice as well. The general policy of 

 hands off and non-interference with things natural, is a good 

 one to pursue. 



