Snakes Alive! A Texas Guide to Not Becoming a Statistic
So, you’re in Texas. The land of wide open spaces, bigger hair, and more snakes than you can shake a stick at. And by "shake a stick at," I mean "run away screaming from." Let's talk about how to tell if one of those slithery critters is looking to turn you into its next meal.
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| How Can You Tell If A Snake Is Poisonous In Texas |
The Good Ol' Days of "Red Touch Yellow, Kill a Fellow"
Remember that little rhyme from your childhood? Well, it's mostly true in Texas. If you see a snake with red and yellow bands, and those colors touch, it's a coral snake, and you should probably back away slowly. But here's the kicker: there's also a harmless milk snake that looks almost identical. So, while this rhyme is a good starting point, it's not foolproof.
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
Head of the Class
Another thing to look for is the shape of the snake's head. Most venomous snakes in Texas, like rattlesnakes and copperheads, have triangular-shaped heads. Non-venomous snakes usually have rounder heads. But, and this is a big but, some non-venomous snakes can flatten their heads to look scary. So, again, not a 100% reliable method.
QuickTip: Skim the ending to preview key takeaways.
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Eye of the Tiger (or Snake)
Some people swear by looking at a snake's pupils. They say venomous snakes have slit-shaped pupils, while non-venomous ones have round pupils. This is generally true for most venomous snakes, but there are exceptions. So, while it’s a helpful clue, don’t rely on it alone.
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
The Ultimate Truth: Don't Mess With It!
The safest bet? If you see a snake in Texas, assume it's venomous and leave it alone. Seriously, just walk away. There are plenty of other things to do in Texas besides getting bitten by a snake. Like eating barbecue, watching football, or complaining about the heat.
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
Quick FAQ: Snake Safety 101
- How to identify a venomous snake in Texas? While there are some general rules, the best advice is to leave any snake alone and contact a professional if necessary.
- How to avoid snake bites? Wear closed-toe shoes, be aware of your surroundings, and stay on designated trails.
- How to treat a snake bite? If bitten, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet.
- How to prevent snakes from coming into your home? Seal up any cracks or holes in your foundation, keep your yard clean, and remove potential hiding spots.
- How to humanely relocate a snake? Contact a professional wildlife removal service. Trying to move a snake yourself can be dangerous.
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