Snakes in the Lake: A Slithery Situation
So, you're thinking about taking a dip in Lake Houston, huh? Well, before you cannonball in and do a breaststroke through a school of bass, let's talk about the slimy creatures that might be sharing the water with you.
Snakes in the Water: Fact or Fiction?
Let's get one thing straight: there are snakes in Lake Houston. It's a fact of life, like taxes and annoying telemarketers. But before you start hyperventilating and imagining yourself as the next star of a nature horror movie, let's take a deep breath. Most of the snakes you'll encounter are harmless water snakes, which are more interested in munching on fish than making a meal out of you.
Think of it this way: snakes are part of the ecosystem. They help keep the rodent population in check, and they're a tasty treat for bigger predators like birds and alligators. So, while it's natural to be a little wary of these slithery critters, let's try to appreciate their role in the grand scheme of things.
What to Do If You See a Snake
If you spot a snake while you're enjoying your day at the lake, the best course of action is to simply admire it from a safe distance. Don't try to provoke it or harass it, and it's unlikely to bother you. If you're really freaked out, slowly back away and find a different spot to hang out.
Remember: most snake bites occur when people try to handle or kill a snake. So, keep your distance, and let the snake do its thing.
How to Stay Snake-Free (or at least Snake-Aware)
- Wear water shoes: This will protect your feet from any unexpected encounters with snakes or other critters lurking in the shallows.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for signs of snakes, such as sunning themselves on rocks or logs.
- Don't swim at dusk or dawn: Snakes are more active during these times, so it's best to avoid swimming when they're most likely to be out and about.
- Learn to identify non-venomous snakes: Knowing the difference between a harmless water snake and a venomous one can help put your mind at ease.
And remember: while snakes can be scary, they're usually more afraid of you than you are of them. So, relax, enjoy your time at the lake, and let the snakes be snakes.
How-To Snake Safety
- How to identify a venomous snake: Look for triangular-shaped heads, elliptical pupils, and distinct heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils.
- How to avoid snake bites: Give snakes plenty of space, and never try to handle or kill one.
- How to treat a snake bite: If you do get bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
- How to prevent snakes from entering your home: Seal up any cracks or holes in your foundation, and keep your yard free of clutter.
- How to safely remove a snake from your property: Contact a professional wildlife removal service.
