This desert kingsnake had an encounter with a bulldozer at a construction site just outside of El Paso, Texas, and received some serious injuries. While the accident of the snake was unfortunate, the fact that the supervisor on the job immediately called Chihuahuan Desert Wildlife Rescue and then delivered the animal to a rehabilitator is refreshing. All-to-many people would have assumed that it was their patriotic duty to kill the animal to save the world from its "deadly potential."

The wounds of the snake were carefully cleaned and the animal placed in a cage. So far, the snake seems to be recovering. Because of the seriousness of the injuries the snake will never see the wild desert again. He is no longer able to fend for himself and escape predators.

Snakes are a very important part of our environment and none (including venomous snakes) should be killed, either out of fear or simply for the thrill of it. They perform a valuable service by helping to control the rodent population and rodents do a great deal to damage our foods and crops. They also can carry serious diseases that can be transmitted to man.

If you encounter a snake in or near your home that simply has to go, please call your local animal control office or an animal rehabilitation group. They will remove the animal to a more suitable location.