Another instance of being in the "right place at the right time". This small clutch of Corn Snake eggs was unearthed by a backhoe in the process of removing large log/sand piles as site preparation for a planned senior development. As Corn Snakes, Northern Pine Snakes, and other NJ protected species were known to be present in the surrounding Pine forest, biological monitors (including me!) were present on site during all active construction phases to ensure the safety of any State species of special concern. Amazingly, the 7 eggs were healthy and undamaged, and 3 neonates had already slit their leathery eggshells at the time of discovery. The entire clutch was removed to the field lab to finish their "birthday" in safety, and 48 hours later 4 male and 3 female beautiful and healthy (and endangered) baby NJ Corn Snakes had successfully emerged, despite their "risky situation". A great feeling! The neonates were weighed, measured, and noted for dorsal pattern characteristics, then released after their first shed into suitable Pine Barrens habitat on protected land a short distance from the construction site.