So You're Headed to Oklahoma? Don't Worry, We've Got You Covered (On Snake Concerns, Not Your Hotel Bill)
Ah, Oklahoma, land of wind, cowboys, and...well, a surprising number of snakes. But don't let that last one slither its way into your travel plans! Now, while the state boasts a healthy population of scaly friends, most are about as harmful as a lost shoelace. But that does leave the question: how many of these bad boys are actually venomous?
How Many Poisonous Snakes Are There In Oklahoma |
Spoiler Alert: Not an Army, But Enough to Keep You Alert
Here's the lowdown: out of the 46 slithery residents that call Oklahoma home, only seven are packing heat (venom, that is). That's right, folks, we're talking about a mere 15% of the Oklahoma snake population. So, the odds are ever in your favor of encountering a harmless noodle instead of a viper with an attitude.
Now, let's meet the venomous seven:
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
- Copperheads: These guys are the most common venomous snake in Oklahoma, so keep an eye out for their distinctive hourglass patterns.
- Cottonmouths (also known as Water Moccasins): Don't let the name fool you, they're happy on land too. Watch out for their puffy heads and bad attitudes.
- Rattlesnakes: The OG venomous snakes. If you hear a rattle, it's a pretty good sign you should take a detour.
Relax, We're Kidding (Mostly)
Look, encountering a venomous snake in Oklahoma is pretty rare. But it's always good to be prepared, right? So here are some tips to keep your snake encounters pleasant (or at least uneventful):
- Stick to the trails: Snakes like to hang out in tall grass and brush piles. Stay on clear paths and you'll be less likely to surprise one.
- Give them space: If you see a snake, admire it from afar (with a healthy dose of respect, of course) and let it be on its way.
- Know your footwear: Closed-toe shoes are your friend when exploring the outdoors.
How To Deal With Oklahoma's Snake Scene: FAQ
1. How to Identify a Venomous Snake?
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
While snake identification is a skill, for most folks it's best to err on the side of caution. If you're unsure, just assume it's venomous and give it a wide berth.
2. How to React to a Snake Encounter?
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
Stay calm, back away slowly, and keep an eye on the snake. Don't try to handle it or corner it.
3. How to Snake-Proof Your Yard?
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
Keeping your yard clear of debris and overgrown areas can make it less attractive to snakes.
4. How to Treat a Snake Bite (Hopefully You Won't Need This!)
If bitten, stay calm, remove any jewelry near the bite, and call 911 immediately. Don't try to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet.
5. How to Enjoy Oklahoma Without Worrying About Snakes?
Remember, venomous snakes are a small minority. Embrace the beauty of Oklahoma's wildlife, and with a little caution, you're sure to have a fang-tastic time (see what we did there?).