A Life Set Free: The King of Kendrick’s Garden

“It started with a heavy heart and a sleepless night. There is a young, beautiful king snake I’ve watched growing in my garden, someone I consider a neighbor and a friend. I talk to him when I see him, knowing the vital role he plays, protecting our space and eventually keeping venomous snakes at bay.

So when we discovered him under the recycling bin in the garage last night, caught fast in an adhesive roach trap placed there by a pest control technician without my knowledge, a pit formed deep in my stomach. My heart raced, and I couldn’t sleep until well past two in the morning, sickened by the thought of his suffering. I knew right then that those traps would never cross my threshold again.

By some miracle, he was still alive this morning.

I immediately called my neighbor, Greg, a wonderful wildlife enthusiast, and together we went to work. Armed with olive oil to dissolve the glue and a water sprayer to keep the little guy hydrated and calm, we began the painstaking process. Inch by agonizing inch, Greg peeled the sticky paper away.

What could have been a terrifying ordeal for the snake turned into a moment of pure, silent understanding. He relaxed completely. It was as if he knew we were there to save him. He trusted us, letting Greg work the glue free while I gently misted him with water.

The moment of release was pure magic. We carried him back to the garden, and he slipped right into the familiar hole he calls home.

From the depths of despair to being absolutely overjoyed—what a journey. Today, Greg, that resilient little snake, and I shared something truly special. To hold such deep respect and love for the small creatures of this earth is a glorious feeling. This harrowing experience broke my heart open, only to leave me feeling profoundly connected to Mother Nature, to snakes, and to all sentient beings. My heart is full of nothing but gratitude.”