Spring is here again! The days are getting longer, the temperatures are getting warmer, and many different animals are coming out of winter hibernation, or dormancy.
Snakes are ectothermic, or cold-blooded animals. This means that they cannot regulate their body temperature internally and must use the outside environment. Finding a spot underground during the winter is very important so they don’t freeze to death. Snakes will “den up” together and even with other animals during the winter. They don’t usually eat or move much during this period due to the low temperatures and energy levels of their bodies.
After a long winter in the den or burrow, snakes will get more active as the temperatures rise. At first they will come out to “bask” in the sun on warm days, but won’t go very far from this spot because it is still getting pretty cold at night and will need to retreat. So when the night time temperatures are consistently safe, they will disperse from the site in search for food and an opportunity to mate.
It is at this time people should raise their awareness level and pay close attention to what they are doing. Because there are a few snakes that require your utmost attention when living in West Texas, including the infamous Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. These snakes have gotten a pretty bad reputation over the years because of their attitude and venom. But in reality, there is nothing to be afraid of. We would ask that you have a healthy respect for the Diamondback rather than fear them.
Upon leaving their winter hideout, snakes will seek shelter just about anywhere they can. So the more “stuff” you have lying around in the yard, the more likely a snake will use it as shelter. And if you have food scraps outside, this will attract other animals, especially rodents, which will attract the snakes. So the best way to avoid an unwanted confrontation is to simply make sure the immediate area around your home is as tidy as possible. Keep the yard trimmed and don’t leave things lying around.
Snakes do not want to confront humans. They would prefer if we never even saw them, so they are never going to attack you, unprovoked, and will certainly not chase you. Rattlesnakes use their toxic venom for two things: to kill their prey and as self defense. Since this venom is used to capture their prey, it is not in their best interest to use it unless they feel threatened enough to justify it.
Snakes will be active throughout the summer, but what many people don’t realize is that snakes can also over-heat very quickly in the mid-summer heat. Because of this they will be more active at night and seek cool places to retreat during the day. This is often the time when people are confronted with snakes that are just trying to get out of the heat.
By far the most important thing you can do to avoid a potentially serious situation is educate yourself and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t put your fingers anywhere before checking and be careful where you are stepping. And never try and pick up or kill a snake. Most people are bitten as a result of either provoking it or trying to kill it. Remember, they would prefer to avoid a confrontation so if you just respect that, you should be fine.
If you do happen to be the unfortunate victim of a rattlesnake bite, here are a few quick tips to remember.
- Try and remain calm.
- Remove any tight clothing and accessories (rings, necklaces, etc.). This is to prevent blood flow restriction upon swelling.
- Get to a hospital as quickly, but safely, as you can.
There is almost a 100% survival rate if you get medical help within a couple of hours.
If you are properly educated and behave accordingly, there is no reason we can’t coexist with other wildlife. So this spring and summer, just be aware of the possible presence of other animals, including snakes. The more you know and the more aware you are, the better prepared you will be to deal with an encounter.
About the author: Jeremy Wilson is the co-founder of For the Love of Nature. This organization’s mission is to promote and reconnect the wild, natural environment surrounding us, to every child and community member. By raising the standard of well-being and living as a connected global community and increasing the knowledge of environmental sustainability through nature-based programs, environmental education, and outreach we can live in harmony with nature, ensuring the survival of a healthy planet. For more information about For the Love of Nature, visit their website, ForTheLoveOfNature.org.
Photo contributed by For the Love of Nature.
