NEW BALTIMORE (WWJ) - Police in eastern Macomb County are warning residents of a possible venomous snake that seems to have taken up residence at shoreline neighborhood park.
New Baltimore police first received a report about a snake living at Ruedisale Park on Wednesday, but were unable to locate the animal. Officers went back on Thursday and successfully located the snake, said to be roughly four to five feet in length.
Since they can't identify the snake, officials can't rule out the possibility that it is an eastern massasauga rattlesnake -- the only venomous snake in Michigan and a threatened species.
Police suspect the rising water levels may have forced the animal to a dryer area in the park after its den became flooded.
Officers remind residents: "The best thing to do if you see a snake is to leave it alone!"