WARM WEATHER MEANS MORE SNAKES
SNAKES ENJOY THE WARM WEATHER
With the warm season approaching more people will be actively hitting the water to enjoy their time in the sun. The one thing that is certain is that humans are not the only creatures to enjoy the warmer times of the year. Across North America you will begin seeing more and more interactions with snakes around the nation. The areas you live in will depends on the types of snakes that inhabit your local areas. When you run into a snake while out with your friends and family it is important to not only identify the snake but avoid them as well. Not all snakes are poisonous and not all snakes are aggressive.
SOME SNAKES LIKE WATER
As anglers we spend a lot of time around the water and there is a high possibility you will run into a few types of snakes around marshy wet areas. They live around these areas because water draws There are common snakes you will find around the areas of water such as the non venomous water snake, and the venomous snakes such as the cottonmouth (water moccasin) and copperhead snake. North America also has other species of venomous snakes, but they are not found around water as often.
1. Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin)
This snake is a great swimmer and loves to ambush its prey. This is the reason for common attacks on humans. If bitten by this snake you should seek medical attention immediately. The venom from the cottonmouth while not always deadly can eat at flesh and force amputation if not cared for quickly. When approached these snakes will most likely coil and show their fangs. As cottonmouths get older they tend to darken in color and lose their bright colored patterns.
2. Copperhead Snake
This snake is the culprit for most reported snake bites in North America. This isn’t do to its aggressive nature but its tendency to freeze and not flee when danger approaches. Due to their great camouflage pattern This causes them to get stepped and attack out of defense. You can recognize these snakes from their tan and sometimes pinkish tint.
3. Rattlesnakes
Many species of rattlesnakes can be found across North America. A few rattlesnakes can be found around lakes and rivers but tend to live in more desert & rocky terrain. If a rattlesnake is found close to the water it is most likely chasing a food source. The rattle can be heard from meters away, but it is not a guaranteed sound to prevent an attack.
