Reptiles in Our Forests

Reptiles are important predators within the food webs of their habitats. As such, they help keep animals that humans regard as pests under control.  Worldwide, the importance of venomous snakes is being recognized not only for their role as both predator and prey but for their medical value. Recent promising breakthroughs in treatments for hypertension, heart attack, and cancer are attributed to snake venom research.  PA DCNR Bureau of Forestry's 2.1 million acres of State Forest lands provide the largest blocks of timber rattlesnake range remaining in the Northeastern states.

The Cumberland Woodland Owners Association is an organization of private forestland owners and others interested in forestry issues in south central Pennsylvania. The mission of the association is to provide information, education and an exchange of ideas to its members and others about the methods and benefits of proper forest management.  For more information about the Cumberland Woodland Owners Association and the September 13th meeting, contact Fred Peabody at 717/776-3565 (email: fredp5@earthlink.net).