Rattlesnakes in the Quabbin? Think about it. These snakes have no natural enemies, so they will multiply, run out of food, and start to migrate.
Some will take the overland route because their “island” is not really an island after all. Others will swim (of course, all wild animals can swim.) Some will make it to the other islands, some will actually get to the mainland, but some might not make it and will lie on the bottom of the Quabbin — rotting away, poisoning the water.
However, those who reach the mainland will thrive again and soon reports will come in of people being bitten/poisoned — a toddler playing in his sandbox, teenagers getting in their car, a retiree stepping into his tool shed — the list goes on.
Which is more important, your family and friends or a bunch of poisonous reptiles?
Alice H. Lively
Greenfield