While encountering snakes on a hike can be surprising, most snakes are not aggressive towards humans. They generally prefer to avoid interaction and will try to escape when sensing human presence. Knowing how to react ensures a safe experience in natural environments.
Immediate Actions Upon Sighting
If you spot a snake, stay calm and still. Sudden movements can startle it, causing a defensive reaction. Observe its location and behavior from a distance.
Maintain at least 6 feet (about 2 meters) from the snake. This distance helps ensure you are outside its strike range, which for many snakes is about half their body length. Slowly and calmly back away, keeping your eyes on it without making direct eye contact. Never attempt to approach, handle, or provoke a snake, even with a stick, as this significantly increases the risk of a bite.
Identifying Potential Danger
While identifying a snake’s species can be difficult, general characteristics can indicate a potentially venomous one. Many venomous snakes, particularly pit vipers, often have a triangular or broad, arrow-shaped head distinct from their narrower neck. Their pupils may appear as vertical slits, similar to a cat’s eye.
A rattle at the end of the tail clearly indicates a rattlesnake, though not all rattlesnakes rattle before striking. Some venomous snakes may also display warning behaviors like hissing, coiling, or vibrating their tails. If uncertain, always assume a snake is venomous and maintain distance.
Minimizing Risk on Trails
To reduce the likelihood of encountering a snake, stay on marked hiking trails. Snakes often prefer quieter, less disturbed areas, so sticking to established paths lessens the chance of surprising one.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots that cover the ankles, and long pants for protection against potential bites. Always watch where you step, especially around logs, rocks, and dense vegetation where snakes might be camouflaged or seeking shelter. Avoid placing hands or feet into crevices or under rocks without first checking for hidden wildlife. Make some noise while hiking, perhaps by talking or using a walking stick, to alert snakes to your presence, giving them time to move away before you get too close.
Responding to a Snake Bite
A snake bite should always be treated as a medical emergency, requiring immediate professional attention. If bitten, stay calm and move away from the snake to prevent further bites. Call emergency services immediately, such as 911, and avoid driving yourself to a medical facility if possible, as symptoms can impair your ability to drive safely.
While waiting for help to arrive, keep the bitten limb as still as possible and, if practical, position it below the level of the heart to help slow the spread of venom. Remove any tight clothing, jewelry, or accessories near the bite area, as swelling may occur. Gently clean the wound with soap and water if available, and cover it loosely with a clean, dry dressing.
Do not attempt to cut the wound, try to suck out the venom, apply a tourniquet, or use ice on the bite, as these actions can cause further harm and are not effective. Also, avoid consuming alcohol or caffeinated beverages. Taking a photo of the snake from a safe distance can be helpful for identification, but it is not a priority and should not delay seeking immediate medical care.