Coexisting with Wildlife

Research suggests that fear of snakes (ophidiophobia) is one of the most common phobias in the world. While most snakes – even venomous species – pose no harm to people if simply left alone, there are very real bite risks for both humans and animals if they come into close contact with some species.

Both venomous and non-venomous snakes can bite. Non-venomous snakebites can be painful, cause injuries that require medical attention, and present risk of infection, as with any other kind of animal bite injury. Venomous snakebites are more dangerous, though are not usually fatal in humans. The USDA estimates that around 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States each year and, of them, around 10 – 15 of those people die. This is around 1 in every 700 people.

For companion animals, the risk of fatality is higher. The ASPCA estimates that around 100,000 dogs and cats will suffer snakebites each year and mortality rates are between 1% – 30%.

For those who have a fear of snakes, the presence of any snake – whether dangerous or otherwise – in or around their living environment might be cause for distress. For those encountering venomous snakes in their living environment, it is important that they be safely and humanely excluded.

Learn to recognize venomous snakes native to the area you live. If you are not confident that you can effectively identify a species, err on the side of caution and treat all snake encounters as potentially dangerous.

Close holes leading to crawl spaces under your home.

Keep lawns mowed so that grass cannot conceal resting snakes. If grass is long, do not walk through it and prevent children or companion animals from doing the same.

Snake proof your yard by installing small gauge mesh around the bottom of your fence to block snakes from entering.

Do not leave log piles or other natural waste piles in your yard that could serve as den sites.

Teach children to move slowly away from a snake if they see one or hear one and to tell an adult.

Seal ground level holes that allow access to crawlspaces or other access points around your home. Snakes seek warm, dry spaces to make their dens. Some snakes are good climbers so you should also check eaves.

If you are hiking or otherwise spending time in wild or natural areas where snakes might be present:

• Always wear closed-toed shoes or boots.
• Watch where you put your feet and avoid grabbing branches as you move through spaces to help you balance.
• Don’t reach into space that you cannot see. The majority of snake bites occur on the fingers and hands.
• Check logs before you sit down.
• Listen for the distinctive “rattle” of a rattlesnake. If you hear it, move away slowly and carefully. Do not try to get closer, take photos, or otherwise interact. The rattle is a warning – the snake knows you are there and feels threatened.
• Remember that rattlesnakes do not always rattle before they bite.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and be vigilant on behalf of any members of your party who might be vulnerable – children and companion animals in particular.
• Avoid walking at night. If it cannot be avoided, use a flashlight and take extra care.

Snakes can make their dens in homes or be found in yards. While snakes found outside can usually be left to move on of their own accord, snakes who have made their den in your home or yard might need to be removed.

If you fear that you have a venomous species either in your home or your yard, give the snake space and call local animal control or experts with experience in humane snake removal. Unless you are trained, never try to remove a venomous snake yourself.

If you or a human family member is bitten by a snake:

• Seek medial attention immediately.
• Do not restrict blood flow to the wound by using a torniquet.
• Do not try to suck out venom.
• Remove jewelry, watches, shoes, or other items that might restrict swelling.
• Wash the wound gently with soap and water.
• Keep the wound below heart level.
• If the snake is venomous get to an emergency room as soon as possible or call 911 if you don’t have access to transport. Do not drive yourself. Either have someone else drive you or call an ambulance.
• Even if you are sure that the snake is not venomous, medical treatment is important to prevent or treat infection.

If a companion animal is bitten by a venomous snake

• Remove collar to avoid restricting swelling.
• Many companion animals will be bitten on the face/muzzle as they try to sniff at the snake. This presents a secondary risk to their airways.
• Transport immediately to an emergency veterinary clinic.
• Call ahead to let the clinic know you are on your way.
• Do not delay in seeking veterinary care – the longer the bite is left untreated, and secondary issues such as swelling of airways continues, the higher chance of death or other complications.

Snakes are one of the few terrestrial (land living) animals without legs, along with some lizards and amphibians.

Despite common belief, snakes don’t “dislocate” their jaws to eat prey. Instead, the structure of their head allows them to open their jaws wide to swallow.

Snakes do not chew their food and, instead, prey swallowed whole will be broken down my stomach acids.

Snakes do not always eat small mammals. Many have a diet made up of bugs and grubs.

Texas indigo snakes, which are the longest native snakes in North America, eat smaller snakes, including rattlesnakes. They have evolved to resist rattlesnake venom. The snakes get their name from their blue/black scales which appear iridescent when reflecting light.