[Greg Reid]

Originally Posted by ponyakr

Was on a blackberry picking expedition, when I walked along the driver side of an old '69 Bird. It is one of three '69 parts cars, which I've been storing for a friend. I approached the car from the rear, and just as I passed by the rear window opening, I was startled by a loud rattle. Yes, it was the unmistakable sound of a big rattlesnake !

It was up on the sundeck, just under where the rear glass would have been. It was coiled, with head up--ready to strike. My right arm probably passed within 3 to 4 feet of it's head. Don't know if that was close enuff for a bite or not. As soon as I heard the sound, I just automatically jumped sideways, away from the snake. When a safe distance away, I turned around to look. It was still there, staring back at me, head raised, rattle shaking.

Well, that experience made me shake a little, when I realized how close I came to getting bit. During my berry pickin trips, I've been careful to look before I step. And, I was looking down as I walked by the Bird. But I was not expecting to encounter a snake that high off the ground.

Anyhow, I went back today and killed the snake. It measured just over 51 inches long, and has either 10 or 11 rattles and a button. After, I killed that one, I could hear some noise from somewhere down inside the trunk or back seat area. I figure the noise was probably made by a mate. Couldn't get the trunk lid open. I'll keep checkin on it, and try to get that one, if possible. I've heard they run pairs. Killed a pair at my sisters house, a couple of years back.

Pics won't upload for some reason. May have to resize and post later.

Glad you're here to tell the story!....(and post the pics) Probably right about the other one. Can't imagine anything else that would be hanging out in his neighborhood.