An Unwelcome Guest

A few years ago when we were down here when Hurricane Frances was making it's approach to FL. We were moving the patio furniture inside and found a Brown Widow Spider. At that time I did not know there was such a thing. So today I was moving some lounge cushions, being very carefull to check for spiders, when I found this guy under a cushion. Yes, of course it scared the bejeebers out of me. So what did I do? I said, "Christy, bring me my camera. Then get the boys inside!" That's right, priorities! Gotta get the shot! After making a couple of calls, I ascertained that it was harmless along the lines of a garter snake, we let the boys come out and see it. Then we sent them back in while I got Mr. Snake out of the lanai. It took a garden rake and some sweat but we managed to get him out in the bushes where he can eat lizards and mice.