Illinois closes a forest road twice a year to protect migrating snakes

A quiet road in southern Illinois has an unusual distinction: it disappears from the traffic map twice a year, leaving snakes, frogs and turtles to cross without the threat of passing cars. Known as Snake Road, the route runs through the Shawnee National Forest between LaRue Swamp and the LaRue-Pine Hills limestone bluffs. National Geographic's educational account describes how the road crosses a seasonal migration route used by snakes and other reptiles moving between the two habitats. Seasonal closures began in 1972, where the road is not permanently closed.The spectacle attracts wildlife enthusiasts hoping to spot dozens of snakes in their natural surroundings, while highlighting how a simple road can become a serious obstacle for migrating wildlife.The snake migration route across Snake RoadThe animals are not crossing simply because the road happens to be in their way. Their seasonal movements take them between the swamp and the rocky hills on opposite sides.During warmer months, the swamp provides feeding and living areas. When the seasons change, many reptiles head towards the limestone bluffs, where cracks, caves and rocky spaces offer places to shelter during colder weathe...