Submitted report
Springtime and warmer temperatures bring more snake sightings. This is the time of year when they slither out of their winter dens in search of food and water, shed their old skin, and soak up the Texas sun. Be on the lookout for snakes, especially when kids are pets are around.
Texas is home to many snakes, but only four types are venomous: the coral snake, copperhead, rattlesnake, and cottonmouth (or water moccasin). Of those, the coral, copperhead and rattlesnake are almost never aggressive.
The cottonmouth is known for being aggressive, so be wary of it, especially if you are near a creek or lake or other body of water where they have been seen.
To minimize the chances of seeing a snake in your yard, control their habitat. Snakes are often found in woodpiles or among leaves on the ground. They like areas that create a cool, dark environment and they are masters of disguise.
Snakes also frequent tall grasses in search of mice and other rodents. By removing their habitat, they will usually go elsewhere in search of a suitable place to live. Keep all vegetation closely mowed; remove bushes, shrubs, rocks, boards, firewood, and debris lying close to the ground.
Many snakes feed on small rodents. If the rodent population is reduced, snakes will go elsewhere.
Snakes need water to live. It is not uncommon to find snakes near decorative ponds, pet water dishes, or other areas of standing water. The habitat is not hospitable without water.
The old adage that the only good snake is a dead snake is not true. Snakes do a great deal to reduce rodent and insect population that if left unchecked, could be harmful to food crops or carry disease that can affect humans.
If you encounter a snake, first and foremost, leave it alone. Many people are bitten because they try to kill a snake or get a closer look at it. If you encounter a snake, calmly turn and walk along another path. Wear thick leather boots, and remain on hiking paths as much as possible. Keep hands and feet out of areas you cannot see. Don’t pick up rocks or firewood unless you are out of a snake’s striking distance. Be cautious and alert when climbing rocks. These are all places where a snake likes to dwell.
If a snake bites you, seek treatment immediately. If that is not possible, wash the bite with soap and water and immobilize the bitten area. Keep that area lower than the heart and seek medical attention right away. Do not try to treat the bite yourself.
Early onset symptoms of venomous snakebites include pain, puncture wounds from fangs, blurred vision, blood from the wound, dizziness, excessive sweating, fainting, loss of muscle coordination, swelling, weakness, rapid pulse, nausea and vomiting. Long-term effects of venomous snakebites include loss of limb, decreased mobility and tissue death or necrosis at the site of the injury.
Snakes have an important role in our ecosystem. They should not be looked upon as an evil to be eradicated. Simple habitat modifications can minimize the chance of having snakes in your yard. If you do see a snake, however, use good judgment and just leave it alone.
Written by Richard Parrish, Hays County Agent, Agriculture / Natural Resources
