While out on a field survey in Ohio, archaeologist Ryan Botkin and his team were wrapping up their workday when something unexpected caught their attention.

Just as they were getting ready to leave, one of Botkin’s colleagues pointed out a small snake slithering away. The reptile had clearly noticed them before they noticed it and was quickly trying to find shelter.

A Quick Photo for His Kids

Botkin, who often takes pictures during his fieldwork to share with his two sons, decided to follow the snake for a better look. He managed to snap a quick shot before the creature found a better hiding spot and vanished from view. Slipping his phone back into his pocket, Botkin didn’t think much of it at the time. The moment felt ordinary.

“It was just a quick picture of a snake that I took to show my kids some of the things I get to see when I work outside,” Botkin told The Dodo.

A Second Look Reveals a Challenge

Later that day, Botkin revisited the photo and realized something surprising — he couldn’t spot the snake right away. It took him a moment to locate it, and even then, it gave him a good laugh. The idea that he, the person who had taken the photo, struggled to see the snake amused him enough to share it on Facebook, curious to see if others would have the same difficulty.

A Viral Moment

The response was immediate and enthusiastic. “It got A LOT of reactions and comments, and people really liked it and thought it was fun and challenging,” Botkin said. “And I didn’t get any negative comments that I read beyond them saying they couldn’t find it or joking that there was no snake in the picture.”

From Hidden Snake to Internet Star

All the little snake had wanted was to quietly slip away from sight — completely unaware that it would soon be the center of an online guessing game, becoming a viral sensation thanks to its remarkable camouflage and perfect timing.