Safety – Snake Wranglers

Snakes frighten some people but the fact is that most snakes are not dangerous. In our region, only the three species of Rattlesnakes, (Southern Pacific, Red Diamond and Speckled), are venomous to the extent that they can cause serious injury or death. Nationwide, there are 22 species of venomous snakes, including Cottonmouths, Copperheads and Coral Snakes. The majority of venomous snakes in the US come from the 17 species of Rattlesnakes.

Rattlesnakes usually avoid humans, but about 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States each year. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, venomous snake bites result in 10 to 15 deaths a year in the US.

While there are some mildly venomous snakes whose bite can cause minor skin irritation, most snake species in the US are harmless to humans.

Snakes, including the venomous ones, can be safely observed and even captured if one follows reasonable safety protocols and common sense.

Venomous snakes should only be handled by those who have been properly trained and have the appropriate tools.

Rattlesnakes typically can strike out about half their body length. They are relatively slow crawlers and are not typically aggressive. They will defend themselves if they feel threatened, however. With the largest Rattlesnakes in our region measuring less than six feet in length, observers should be safe if they stay at least that far away from these reptiles. That said, Rattlesnakes are heavily camouflaged and can be almost invisible in their typical habitat. When hiking in areas where Rattlesnakes are common, it is best to stay on trails while constantly scanning the trail edges.

Most Rattlesnake bites occur when someone accidently startles or even steps on a hidden snake. Snakebites usually occur on the legs or feet. Protective shoes and leggings will usually absorb a snakebite without causing injury to the snake or human.

Dogs and other pets are more vulnerable. While it is possible to train dogs to avoid venomous snakes, their curiosity sometimes puts them in danger, resulting in bites on the nose or head. When in snake country it is best to keep dogs on a leash and in the middle of a hiking trail. If a Rattlesnake is found in your yard, dogs and other animals should be brought indoors until the snake has been removed.

To avoid rattlesnake bites here are some safety precautions from the USDA:

Wear appropriate over-the-ankle hiking boots, thick socks, and loose-fitting long pants. Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas.
When hiking, stick to well-used trails if possible.
Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day.
Look at your feet to watch where you step and do not put your foot in or near a crevice where you cannot see.
Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see, and avoid wandering around in the dark.
If a fallen tree or large rock is in your path, step up on to it instead of over it, as there might be a snake on the other side.
Be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood.
Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and shake out sleeping bags before use.
Do not turn over rocks or logs. If you must move a rock or log, use gloves and roll it toward you, giving anything beneath it the opportunity to escape in the opposite direction.
Never grab “sticks” or “branches” while swimming in lakes and rivers. Rattlesnakes can swim.
Avoid approaching any snake you cannot positively identify as a safe species.
If you hear the warning rattle, move away from the area and do not make sudden or threatening movements in the direction of the snake.
Remember rattlesnakes do not always rattle before they strike!
Do not handle a freshly killed snake - it can still inject venom.

The complete USDA “Snake Safety” document can be viewed here.