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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2013 - 2014
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | April 15, 2013 03:59 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Karen Boback |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Designating the Eastern Timber Rattlesnake as the Official Reptile of the Commonwealth |
| In the near future I plan to introduce legislation, selecting, designating and adopting the eastern timber rattlesnake as the state reptile of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As you know, state symbols are important in helping us better understand what makes Pennsylvania unique. Each symbol connected with Pennsylvania has historical significance or recognizes a native species or product of great meaning to the economy of Pennsylvania. Some of our state symbols were originally suggested by private citizens. For Pennsylvania, I believe our rich landscape and strong ties to the environment would best be represented by the eastern timber rattlesnake. Native to Pennsylvania, the eastern timber rattlesnake is a large, venomous snake famous for its rattling tail which it shakes when threatened. Additionally, the eastern timber rattlesnake has been used to symbolize vigilance, generosity and courage, all of which are important virtues. The eastern timber rattlesnake is particularly important to me because in my district, the Noxen Volunteer Fire Company holds a yearly primary fundraiser by hosting a “rattlesnake round-up.” At the round-up, rattlesnakes are caught, measured and marked and then returned to their original habitat, with no harm done to the reptiles. It is an informative and fun experience in which people may get up close and personal with one of Pennsylvania’s most recognizable reptiles. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation. |
Introduced as HB1316