The Downside of Spring in the Hudson Valley

Now that Spring has finally arrived, bugs are coming back from their vacation and revisiting us here in the Hudson Valley. I'm a girl, yes, but bugs don't really phase me. I don't need anyone killing spiders for me, I'm so used to seeing stink bugs that I consider them friends (although, when I figured out they could fly I might have scream a little).

BUT, with Spring arriving it also brings snakes out of hibernation. I've done my research, they're harmless, but they are the most frightening, disgusting sight I've laid eyes on. After seeing a snake, I can't get the image out of my head and it makes me feel slimy and gross.

Unfortunately, my backyard is a mecca of snake activity in the Spring. Last year, I went to walk my dog and there were about eight snakes huddled together. You could hear them hissing. GROSS. 

Yesterday, I came across my first snake of the season and now I'm avoiding my backyard at all costs. They leave after a few weeks, thankfully, but I'm still creeped out.