So You Think You've Seen a Sidewinder in Your Backyard? A Guide to Austin's Serpentine Squatters
Ah, Austin, Texas. Land of breakfast tacos, live music, and...snakes? Yep, you heard right (or should we say, slithered right?). Those legless wonders are more common than you might think, slithering around the city and its green spaces. But don't worry, we're not talking anaconda-sized monsters here. Most Austin snakes are chill and just trying to make a living (by living, we mean eating pesky rodents, which is actually a good thing!).
So, the next time you're out exploring Barton Creek Greenbelt or lounging in your backyard, keep your eyes peeled for these slithery neighbors. Here's a crash course on the scaly scenesters you might encounter:
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| What Snakes Live In Austin Texas |
The Usual Suspects: Non-Venomous Noodles
- Texas Rat Snake: This long boi (or girl!) is Austin's most common snake. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, so don't be fooled if they look a bit like a rattlesnake (they're not, and they won't rattle at you).
- Water Snake: These aquatic adventurers love hanging out in ponds, streams, and creeks. They might look like cottonmouths (their venomous cousins), but water snakes are all bluff and no bite (well, not a venomous one anyway).
- Rough Earth Snake: Small, slender, and fond of hiding under rocks and leaf litter, these guys are more likely to give you a fright (they vibrate their tails like rattlesnakes) than an actual bite (they're harmless).
The VIPs (Very Important Pit Vipers): Venomous Snakes (But Breathe Easy!)
- Copperhead: This is the only venomous snake you're likely to encounter in Austin. They're shy and prefer to avoid confrontation, but if you do see one, admire it from a safe distance (like, way over there).
Important Note: While copperhead venom isn't super strong, it can still mess you up. If you get bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
Helpful Hint: Don't Be a Snake Charmer (Unless You're Actually Trained)
Leave the snake wrangling to the professionals! If you see a snake on your property, the best thing to do is leave it alone. It'll probably slither away on its own.
However, if you're really worried or the snake is in your house, call animal control. There are experts who can safely remove the snake and relocate it to a more suitable habitat (like, not your living room).
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
How to Live in Harmony with Austin's Slithery Slinkers: A Quick FAQ
How to Identify a Snake: If you're not sure if a snake is venomous or not, it's best to err on the side of caution and leave it alone. There are plenty of online resources and apps to help you identify snakes, but again, when in doubt, don't mess around.
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How to Keep Snakes Out of Your Yard: Keeping your yard free of debris and sealing up any holes in your foundation can help deter snakes from making themselves at home.
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
How to Avoid Snakes on Hiking Trails: Stick to well-maintained trails and avoid tall grass and brushy areas where snakes might be hiding.
How to React if You See a Snake: Stay calm and back away slowly. Don't try to approach, corner, or handle the snake.
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
How to Become a Snake Whisperer (Just Kidding, Don't Do This): Leave the snake wrangling to the professionals. There are plenty of cool things about snakes to appreciate from a safe distance.
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