Snake Encounters: What to Do and How to Stay Safe

A snake encounter is when a person comes into close proximity with a snake, in environments ranging from deep wilderness to suburban backyards. As human communities expand into natural territories, these interactions become more frequent. Snakes are an integral part of many ecosystems. This article provides practical information to help you understand snake behavior and safely manage potential encounters.

Understanding Snake Presence

Snakes are present in our environments for survival, primarily seeking food, shelter, and temperature regulation. As ectothermic (“cold-blooded”) animals, they rely on external sources for body heat. This is why snakes are often seen basking on sunlit rocks or pavement to absorb warmth, which is necessary for their metabolism and digestion.

Conversely, during extreme heat, they seek cool, shaded places to avoid overheating. Their search for shelter leads them into areas that provide cover from predators, such as tall grass, dense shrubbery, and piles of wood or rocks. Structures like sheds and decks also offer protected spaces.

The availability of food is another factor drawing snakes into residential areas. Many snakes prey on rodents, insects, and birds, which are abundant in yards and gardens. A population of mice or rats around a home can act as a significant attractant for snakes looking for a consistent food source.

Differentiating Venomous and Non-Venomous Snakes

Distinguishing between venomous and non-venomous snakes is challenging, as no single feature is reliable. While venomous pit vipers like rattlesnakes often have a triangular head and vertical pupils, these traits can be misleading. Many non-venomous snakes can flatten their heads when threatened, and a venomous snake’s pupils can appear round in low light.

Highly venomous coral snakes defy these rules, having a rounded head and round pupils similar to many harmless species. Their bright red, yellow, and black bands are often confused with non-venomous king snakes. Because coloration and patterns are so variable, they are not a dependable way to identify a snake.

The most effective method for identification is to become familiar with the venomous species native to your geographic area. Since getting close enough to observe features is risky, the safest approach is to treat any unidentified snake as potentially venomous. Always maintain a significant distance.

Actions During a Snake Sighting

If you encounter a snake, your immediate actions determine the outcome. The first step is to remain calm and still. Snakes have poor eyesight but are sensitive to vibration, so sudden movement can be seen as a threat. Avoid any impulse to approach, touch, or harm the snake.

From a stationary position, slowly back away to create at least six to ten feet of space. This gives the snake room to retreat, which is its most likely response. Most snakes are not aggressive and will try to escape a confrontation if given a clear path.

Do not try to kill or capture the snake, as many bites occur during such attempts. If the snake is in a high-risk location like inside a house or a busy yard, call a professional. Animal control or a wildlife removal service has the training and equipment to safely capture and relocate the snake.

Reducing Likelihood of Encounters

Proactive measures can lower the chances of a snake encounter. The strategy is to make your yard less attractive by eliminating sources of food and shelter. Keep your lawn mowed and manage vegetation near your home’s foundation to reduce hiding places. Removing piles of debris, logs, rocks, and overgrown brush is an effective deterrent.

Securing your home is another step. Inspect the foundation, walls, and roofline for cracks or openings and seal them. Pay close attention to areas where utilities and pipes enter the house. Reducing rodent populations by securing trash cans and eliminating outdoor food sources also removes a primary food supply for snakes.

When hiking or camping, situational awareness is your best defense. Wear sturdy, over-the-ankle boots and long pants. Stay on well-trodden paths and avoid walking through tall grass or thick underbrush. Be cautious when stepping over logs or reaching onto rock ledges, and use a flashlight to illuminate your path at night.

Handling a Snake Bite Emergency

Any snake bite should be treated as a medical emergency, as even non-venomous bites carry a risk of infection. First, move away from the snake to prevent additional bites and immediately call for emergency medical services. While waiting for help, keep the person as calm and still as possible, as movement can accelerate the spread of venom.

Position the affected limb at or slightly below heart level. Remove restrictive items like rings or watches from the bite area to accommodate for swelling. If possible, note the time of the bite and try to remember the snake’s appearance without trying to catch it.

Many traditional remedies are harmful and should be avoided. The definitive treatment for a venomous snakebite is antivenom, which is only administered in a hospital. Do not take these actions:

• Apply a tourniquet, as this can concentrate venom and cause tissue damage.
• Cut the wound or attempt to suck out the venom.
• Apply ice or heat to the bite area.
• Give the person alcohol, caffeine, or any medication unless instructed by a medical professional.