Kansas City's Snake Scene: From Slithery Sidekicks to Noodle Nemesis
Kansas City: a vibrant metropolis, a jazz haven, and...a hotbed of slithering surprises? That's right, folks! Beneath the bustling streets and barbecue joints slithers a diverse population of snakes. But don't worry, put down the pitchfork – most of these scaly fellas are more interested in a tasty rodent than your ankles.
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| What Snakes Are In Kansas City |
The Good, the Mildly Unpleasant, and the Definitely Don't Pet
Kansas City boasts a slithering smorgasbord of 38 snake species. Thankfully, only 7 of those are packing heat (venom, that is). Let's meet the locals:
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
The Renters You Didn't Ask For: The Western Ratsnake is basically Kansas City's unofficial mascot. These non-venomous guys are all about keeping your rodent population in check. They might even give your basement a free sweep for creepy crawlies – unsolicited pest control, anyone?
Danger Noodles (Lookalike Edition): Watch out for the Eastern Milksnake and the Kingsnakes. These colorful constrictors are completely harmless, but their patterns mimic their venomous cousins, the coral snake (which is thankfully not a resident of Kansas City). Remember the rhyme: "Red touch yellow, kill a fellow. Red touch black, safe on your back."
The Timid Rattlers: Now, let's talk about the vipers. The Osage Copperhead is the most common venomous snake in the area. They're shy and would rather slither away than tangle with you. But hey, respect their space and everyone goes home happy (and unbitten).
Important Note: If you encounter a venomous snake, admire it from a safe distance (like, way in the back of your house) and call animal control.
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
Fun Fact: The Snake Formerly Known as Lunch
Did you know Kansas City used to be home to a rattlesnake so delicious, they almost ate it into extinction? The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake was once a local delicacy, but thankfully, these days they're a protected species.
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
So You Saw a Snake...Now What?
- Relax, it's probably harmless. Most Kansas City snakes are chill dudes (and dudettes).
- Snap a pic (from a safe distance) for ID. There are plenty of online resources and apps to help you identify the species.
- If it's venomous, call animal control. Don't try to be a hero – these guys are professionals.
How-To FAQs for the Snake-Curious
- How to Identify a Venomous Snake? Look for a triangular-shaped head, elliptical pupils, and a heat pit between the nostrils and eyes (most non-venomous snakes have round pupils).
- How to Avoid Snakes? Keep your yard free of debris and tall grass where they might hide.
- How to Make Your Yard Less Snake-Friendly? Seal up any holes in your foundation and trim back bushes.
- How to Live with Snakes Peacefully? Respect their space and they'll respect yours. Snakes are actually beneficial – they control rodent populations!
- How to Find Out More About Snakes? Check out your local nature center or wildlife rehabilitation center.
Remember, snakes are an important part of Kansas City's ecosystem. So, the next time you see one, keep calm, snap a pic (from afar!), and maybe even give them a little thank you for keeping the mice in check.
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
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