Snakes in the Lone Star State: A Slithery Guide to Austin's Reptile Residents
So, you're moving to Austin, Texas? Or maybe you’re just a curious soul who's wondering what kind of creepy crawlies share your city. Either way, you've come to the right place. Let's talk snakes.
What Kind Of Snakes Are In Austin Texas |
The Good, the Bad, and the Slithery
Before we dive into the details, let's get one thing straight: most snakes in Austin are harmless. They're just looking to mind their own business, eating rodents, and living their best slithery lives. So, unless you’re planning on wrestling one in a bathtub, you're probably going to be okay.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
That said, there are a few venomous snakes out there, and it's important to know how to identify them. But don't worry, we'll get to that. First, let's talk about the more common, less terrifying snakes you might encounter.
QuickTip: Focus on one paragraph at a time.
Non-Venomous Neighbors
- The Texas Rat Snake: This is the overachiever of the snake world. They’re big, bold, and absolutely love to eat rodents. They're basically your personal pest control.
- The Garter Snake: Think of them as the puppy dogs of the snake world. They're small, harmless, and often found in damp areas.
- The Water Snake: These guys love to hang out in and around water. They're not poisonous, but they can give you a good scare if you accidentally step on one.
The Not-So-Friendly Crowd
Okay, now for the slightly more intimidating residents.
QuickTip: Don’t rush through examples.
- The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake: This is the big daddy of Texas snakes. It's venomous, and its rattle is a clear warning to stay away.
- The Copperhead: Smaller than the diamondback, but still packs a venomous punch. They often have a copper-colored head, hence the name.
- The Coral Snake: This is where things get a little tricky. Coral snakes are brightly colored with red, yellow, and black bands. But here's the kicker: there's a saying to help you remember which is which: "Red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, friend of Jack."
How to Survive a Snake Encounter
Okay, so you've seen a snake. Now what?
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
- Don't Panic: Easier said than done, but panicking will only make things worse.
- Identify the Snake: If you can safely do so, try to identify the snake. This will help you determine if it's venomous.
- Give it Space: Snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them. Just give it some room, and it will likely slither away.
- Call a Professional: If you're dealing with a venomous snake or if you're unsure how to handle the situation, call a professional snake removal service.
How To...
- 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: Wear closed-toe shoes, avoid tall grass, and be cautious when reaching into dark places.
- How to create a snake-proof yard: Keep your yard clean and clutter-free, seal up any cracks or holes, and remove potential hiding spots.
- How to coexist with snakes: Remember that snakes are an important part of the ecosystem. They help control rodent populations.
- How to react to a snake bite: Seek medical attention immediately.
Remember, most snakes are harmless and play an important role in the ecosystem. So, let's learn to appreciate these fascinating creatures from a safe distance.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.