Polly Smith-Blackwell is a New York State licensed Timber Rattlesnake handler, and has been observing, studying and photographing Timber Rattlesnakes in their natural habitat for more than 20 years. She also responds to calls to relocate snakes that have strayed too far from their summer range.
As a graphic designer by trade, Polly uses her photography and videography of the Timber Rattlesnake to design and produce a yearly calendar, The Timber Rattlesnake Up Close in the Wild, as well as a DVD video. Since the photos and video show the snakes’ true behavior – quiet and relaxed – these projects help to abolish the stereotype of rattlesnakes as being mean, aggressive animals, which in the long run will help with conservation efforts to protect the threatened species.
Polly consults with the New York State DEC, herpetologists, field biologists, and fellow snake enthusiasts about Timber Rattlesnake biology, research and ongoing conservation efforts in the Northeast. She leads field hikes for The Nature Conservancy, and attends annual conferences to gain further knowledge about Timber Rattlesnakes.
Polly also gives educational presentations about the Timber Rattlesnake to groups and organizations. To schedule an educational Timber Rattlesnake presentation for your group or organization, contact Polly Smith-Blackwell.
