Native Snake Trapped in Spiderweb Decoration Treated and Released by Pelican Harbor Seabird Station

Halloween festivities took an unexpected turn when a native Florida black racer snake was found entangled in a fake spiderweb decoration. Thanks to a vigilant homeowner and a quick response from Pelican Harbor Seabird Station (PHSS), the snake was successfully rescued, treated, and released back into the wild.

The incident occurred in a residential area of Miami Shores, where a Florida black racer, a non-venomous snake and beneficial species native to the region, became ensnared in a decorative Halloween spiderweb. The snake was discovered by the homeowner, who promptly called PHSS for help.

Once safely in the care of the wildlife hospital, the white fibers encasing the reptile were carefully removed from around the snake's mouth and body, where a second animal, a small lizard, was also found entrapped. Clinic staff suspects that the lizard had become entangled in the web first, making it an easy target for the unsuspecting black racer, who then became trapped as well. 

Initial rescue of the black racer

Closeup of entanglement injury

Black racer prior to release

“This type of entanglement injury is common this time of year with people decorating their landscaping for Halloween. We’ve seen the same injury before with a small warbler”, said Yaritza Acosta, Wildlife Rehabilitation Manager. 

“This incident emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our surroundings and the impact our actions can have on the environment and wildlife, especially during holidays and celebrations. While festive and seemingly innocuous, decorations like fake spiderwebs can unintentionally threaten local wildlife. In this case, the snake was fortunate to be discovered and saved by concerned citizens.” said Hannah McDougall, Director of Communications. 

This weekend, the 43-year-old native wildlife center also reached a historic milestone by treating its 42,000th patient since the organization’s inception in 1980, a juvenile Laughing gull that was found tumbling in the waves on Miami Beach. One of the most commonly admitted species at PHSS, the Laughing Gull is also expected to make a full recovery. 

Pelican Harbor Seabird Station is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies on donations to fund its life-saving work. All donations to their operating program are currently being doubled (matched dollar for dollar) by The Batchelor Foundation. Contributions can be made by visiting pelicanharbor.org/donate.

Pelican Harbor Seabird Station is also participating in Give Miami Day, beginning on November 13th until the 16th. All contributions made during this period will receive a partial match from The Miami Foundation. Click HERE to learn more.

For further information, please contact Hannah@pelicanharbor.org