Texas is home to four distinct types of venomous snakes representing two major families of reptiles. The majority of medically significant bites come from the Viperidae family, commonly known as Pit Vipers. The remaining venomous species belongs to the Elapidae family, known for its highly potent venom. Understanding the differences between these snakes is important for public safety, as encounters can happen across all regions of the state.
Identifying the Three Pit Vipers
Pit Vipers, which include rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths, share several distinct features. These characteristics include a large, triangular-shaped head and vertical, cat-like pupils. They also possess a small, deep pit located between the eye and the nostril on each side of the face. This specialized organ detects infrared radiation, allowing the snake to sense the heat signature of warm-blooded prey.
Rattlesnakes are the most widespread group of venomous snakes in Texas. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is the most common and largest species, often exceeding four feet in length. Their signature warning is the unmistakable rattle on the tail, composed of interlocking segments of keratin, though they may strike without rattling if startled. Western Diamondbacks are characterized by dark, diamond-shaped markings down the center of their backs and distinctive alternating black and white rings just before the rattle.
Copperheads are a medium-sized Pit Viper responsible for a large number of bites, though their venom is generally less potent than rattlesnakes. They are easily recognized by their pattern of dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands set against a lighter reddish-brown or copper-colored body. These crossbands often resemble the shape of a Hershey’s Kiss candy. The snake’s tendency to freeze when approached, rather than flee, can lead to accidental close contact.
The Cottonmouth, also called a Water Moccasin, is a semi-aquatic Pit Viper found throughout the eastern half of Texas in swamps and marshes. Adult cottonmouths are stout-bodied and typically dark, ranging from olive to almost solid black, which can obscure their crossband pattern. The common name comes from the bright white, cotton-like lining of their mouth, displayed in a defensive gape when threatened. When swimming, the Cottonmouth often floats on the surface with its entire body visible, unlike non-venomous water snakes that swim mostly submerged.
Recognizing the Elapid: The Texas Coral Snake
The Texas Coral Snake is the state’s sole representative of the Elapidae family. Unlike Pit Vipers, this snake is slender with a small, rounded head and has fixed, short fangs. Its venom is primarily a neurotoxin, which affects the nervous system. This differs significantly from the hemotoxic venom of Pit Vipers, which damages tissue and blood cells.
The Coral Snake is easily identified by its bright, alternating bands of red, yellow, and black that completely encircle its body. To differentiate it from non-venomous mimics, like the Milk Snake, the widely used mnemonic is: “Red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, venom lack.” This means the red bands always touch the yellow bands on the Texas Coral Snake. Despite its potent venom, the Coral Snake is generally reclusive, and bites are relatively rare, often occurring when the snake is handled.
Safe Practices and Habitat Awareness
Understanding where venomous snakes prefer to hide and when they are active is the most effective way to prevent an encounter. Pit Vipers are often crepuscular or nocturnal during warmer months, meaning they are most active at dawn, dusk, and after dark. They seek refuge from the daytime heat and frequently use natural and man-made structures for cover. Exercising caution when walking near woodpiles, rock formations, or dense brush is always prudent.
Keeping residential areas clear of potential hiding spots significantly reduces the likelihood of a snake taking up residence nearby. This involves:
- Maintaining a short lawn.
- Trimming back low-hanging shrubs.
- Removing piles of debris, lumber, or rock that provide cool, dark shelter.
When hiking or working in natural environments, wearing thick leather boots or snake-proof gaiters protects the lower legs, where most bites occur. Never place hands or feet into areas where visibility is limited, such as under logs or into deep crevices.
Immediate Response to a Venomous Bite
In the event of a snake bite, the immediate response can influence the outcome. The first step is to call 911 or seek emergency medical attention immediately, as antivenom is the only definitive treatment for envenomation. While waiting for help, the victim should remain as calm and still as possible to slow the spread of venom through the circulatory system.
The bitten limb should be kept at or slightly below the level of the heart to minimize the flow of venom to the core of the body. Any constricting items, such as rings, watches, or tight clothing, must be removed from the affected area before swelling begins. It is important to know what actions to avoid, as many common remedies are harmful and ineffective.
- Never attempt to cut the wound.
- Do not suck out the venom.
- Avoid applying a tourniquet.
- Do not use ice or electrical shock, as these actions can worsen tissue damage or lead to severe complications.