Venomous snakes are not the most common problem that we run into on a day to day basis, but they are certainly one that we should be very aware of. In the United States, venomous snakes are few and far between among the hundreds of snakes that we might encounter. Still, there are four venomous snake species that all people should be aware.
The Copperhead
Of all the venomous snakes that you might come in contact with, this one is the most likely. It is a very common snake in the southeastern United States, but can be found throughout the United States to some degree. It is a fairly short stout snake that is commonly copper in color, with a clear pattern of darker blotches on it’s back. The copperhead is a pit viper and has a triangular shaped head. Also, it is often confused with a number of other harmless snakes.
The Cottonmouth
The cottonmouth is a highly aggressive venomous snake that is often found in and around the water. The cottonmouth is not as aggressive as some try to make it out to be, but it certainly will stand it’s ground and protect its territory. This snake can be any number of different colors, but is most commonly black to dark brown. The cottonmouth also has bands that fade as the snake ages. It is also a pit viper and therefore has the pits on either side of its snout along with the triangular head. The most distinctive feature of a cottonmouth, however, is the white colored mouth and fangs that it bares whenever it feels threatened.
The Coral Snake
This snake is different from the others on this list in that it is not a pit viper. It actually is a member of the cobra family, and has the corresponding neurotoxic venom to prove it. The coral snake is a very reclusive snake that is very rare to come across. It is noticed by the red, yellow, and black alternating color pattern over the length of its body. This pattern is the source of much folklore, and lots of rhymes have been made to distinguish this snake from the other harmless ones with the same colors. The key is to know that if the red touches the yellow, it is a coral snake.
The Rattlesnakes
The rattlesnakes found in North America are a group of snakes that all have a rattle on the end of the tail that they shake when threatened or approached. This rattle is not always present, however, due to accidents, fights in nature, or other various reasons. That said, you should know that the rattlesnakes are among the most dangerous snakes in America and should be given a very wide berth. (all snakes should if you do not know what they are) There are a number of different species of rattlesnake in America and some notable types are the eastern diamondback, the western diamondback, the timber rattler, the pygmy rattlers, the Mojave rattlesnake, and the sidewinder. There are others, but they are largely in specific places that are remote. These snakes are pit vipers and are varying in their venom. All are potentially deadly.
Each of these venomous snakes are potentially dangerous to you, and as such, should be left alone. Never try to remove a snake by yourself, and always call animal control resources if you find one on your property. There is no safe way for a person that is not familiar with them to safely remove them. Leave it to the professional snake handlers.
