Identifying venomous snakes can be challenging, as many common beliefs are misleading and make accurate identification complex. Dispelling these myths and understanding reliable indicators is important for safety during snake encounters. This information also helps individuals make informed decisions without unnecessarily harming wildlife.
Common Misconceptions in Identification
Many popular beliefs about identifying venomous snakes are unreliable and can lead to dangerous misidentifications. One frequent misconception involves head shape, suggesting that all venomous snakes have a triangular or spade-shaped head. While some venomous snakes, like pit vipers, possess broader heads due to venom glands, many non-venomous species can flatten their heads when threatened, mimicking this appearance. Conversely, some highly venomous snakes, such as the coral snake, have a more rounded head.
Another common but misleading indicator is pupil shape. Elliptical or “cat-like” pupils are often attributed solely to venomous snakes, while round pupils are considered characteristic of non-venomous ones. This rule is not universal; many non-venomous snakes can have elliptical pupils, and some venomous species, notably the coral snake, have round pupils. Pupil shape is more closely related to a snake’s activity patterns, with nocturnal snakes often having elliptical pupils for better low-light vision.
Coloration and patterns are also frequently cited as identification clues, but these are highly variable and often unreliable. Both venomous and non-venomous snakes exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns, and some harmless snakes mimic the appearance of venomous ones as a defense mechanism. For example, the non-venomous wolf snake can have patterns similar to the venomous common krait. Even the presence of a rattling sound is not exclusive to rattlesnakes, as many non-venomous species can vibrate their tails against dry leaves to create a similar noise.
Specific Physical Characteristics to Observe
While many visual cues are unreliable, some specific physical characteristics can indicate a snake’s venomous nature, though observing them closely is dangerous and not recommended for field identification. Rattles, for instance, are a definitive sign of a rattlesnake, which is a type of pit viper. However, rattlesnakes do not always rattle before striking, and their rattles can sometimes be broken off.
Pit vipers, which include rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths, possess unique heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils. These loreal pits allow them to detect the infrared radiation emitted by warm-blooded prey, even in complete darkness. While this feature is a reliable indicator of a pit viper, it requires dangerously close inspection to confirm.
The presence of fangs is another characteristic of venomous snakes, used to inject venom. However, these fangs are typically only visible if the snake is deceased or during a bite, which is not a safe method of identification. Attempting to observe these features up close poses a significant risk of envenomation and should be avoided.
The Definitive Approach: Knowing Local Species
The most reliable and safest method for identifying venomous snakes involves proactive knowledge of the species native to a specific geographical area. Rather than relying on generalized physical traits, understanding the unique characteristics, habitats, and behaviors of the venomous snakes in your region provides accurate identification. This approach helps in recognizing both dangerous and harmless species.
Local wildlife resources, such as university extension offices, state wildlife agencies, or regional herpetological societies, are excellent sources for this information. These organizations often provide detailed guides, photographs, and educational programs on local snake populations. Learning about the specific patterns, sizes, and typical environments where local venomous snakes are found is far more effective than applying broad, often inaccurate, rules.
For example, knowing that a particular region is home to copperheads and recognizing their distinctive hourglass-shaped body bands is more useful than trying to determine if a snake has a “triangular head.” This localized knowledge allows for quick and accurate assessments from a safe distance, minimizing the risk of a dangerous encounter.
Safe Practices When Encountering a Snake
Encountering a snake requires adherence to safe practices, regardless of whether its venomous nature is immediately apparent. Maintain a safe distance, ideally at least 6 to 10 feet, and never attempt to handle, provoke, or kill the snake. Most snake bites occur when individuals try to interact with the snake.
If a snake is encountered, remain calm and slowly back away, allowing the snake to move away on its own. Snakes generally prefer to avoid human contact and will retreat if given the opportunity. If a snake is in a dangerous location, such as inside a home or a frequently used area, contacting local animal control or a professional snake removal service is the appropriate action. These professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely remove and relocate the snake.