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Large snake spotted at popular Charlotte park creates buzz among neighbors

The snake isn't venomous, but it could still pose a danger if you get too close, according to a wildlife expert.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Freedom Park is one of Charlotte's most popular places to run, bike, walk, or just relax. 

But after a recent picture surfaced showing a large snake next to the water, many had questions. 

"Oh my gosh," said a couple as they saw the photo as they walked through the park Thursday night. "Oh wow! Yeah, that's a big snake."

At first glance, Marvin Bouknight with Discovery Place Nature, said he knew it was a Northern water snake. 

"Right off the bat, no question at all for me," he said. 

The biologist said the snake is non-venomous but could still be dangerous if it feels threatened by people in the park. 

"They can still bite, they can still draw blood, and of course, any animal that's around water -- there's always potential for salmonella," Bouknight said.  

The slithering snake looks similar to a copperhead, but it's not. Both snakes can easily be found in Charlotte. Copperheads are venomous, said Bouknight. 

"Copperheads will be near water, but they don't like to be as much around water like that snake in the picture," he explained. 

Water snakes are always around water because they eat frogs and fish, said Bouknight. 

He added parents should talk to their kids about looking and learning about the snakes from a distance and not to be surprised when you see them in the park. 

After all, we are visitors in their habitats. 

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