Directions for Noxen Rattlesnake Roundup

Each year the Noxen, Pennsylvania Volunteer Firefighters hold the town's "Rattlesnake Roundup." This weekend event features events for kids and families culminating in the large roundup of the venomous snakes by state and federal wildlife professionals. Food, rides, hands on shows and learning exhibits highlight the event that started in 1973. As the snakes are rounded up and gathered they are measured, weighed and released back into the wild after the event, making the event a beneficial study of the snakes.

Instructions

    • 1

      Find the dates of the roundup by visiting the Noxen, PA webpage and go to the subsection "Rattlesnake Roundup." The event is held in June each year, with the dates varying in the month year to year. If you do not have web access, call the Noxen Fire Department at (570) 298-2256, (570) 298-2420, or (570) 298-2331.

    • 2

      Register to catch rattlesnakes for the roundup through the Pennsylvania Game Commission. As a hunter you are restricted to catching one snake at least 42 inches and will have to pay the state fee for a license -- $25 as of 2011 for residents and non-residents alike.

    • 3

      License yourself at least 1 to 2 weeks prior to the event to avoid any unwanted frustrations. Each year, the hunters get to the show and event in the early morning hours for briefings and instructions from the state and federal biologists. Get to the fair grounds by 7 a.m.

    • 4

      Stay for the firefighter parade and fireworks display that concludes the event, typically held on Sunday evening, the last day of the event.