Snakes play an important role in nature by helping to control rodents and other pests. If you’re out in the woods, you may come across one, so it’s a good idea to have some helpful tips on avoiding snakes and to also be able to recognize some of our venomous species.
We have three types of venomous snakes here at Tara: copperheads, water moccasins (also known as cottonmouths), and rattlesnakes. Snakes are most active when outdoor temperatures are high. During cooler days, they may seek out sunny areas, rocks, roads, and other heat-reflective areas to warm up.
Recognizing a Rattlesnake
Rattlesnakes are members of the pit viper group and have a flat, triangle-shaped head, “pits” or holes on the sides of their head, and their eyes are oval, rather than round. They have a rattle (or a button for younger snakes) at the end of their tails. The older the snake, the more rattle segments they have. These snakes can be as long as 72 inches, or as short as 15 inches, or anywhere in between.
Tips for avoiding rattlesnake encounters
If you come across a rattlesnake at Tara, we encourage you to leave the snake alone and do not pursue it. Most of the time, snakes want to avoid you as much as you do them. Here are a few tips to help keep you safe in the woods:
- Wear heavy shoes and thick pants or snake chaps when in the woods
- Look at the ground before you take a step. Keep an eye out for snakes.
- Never put your hands into a hole or under a rock without looking first. Snakes often use abandoned tortoise holes as homes and may be found under rocks.
- If you find yourself near to a venomous snake, avoid any sudden movements. Quick motion may cause a snake to strike. If you are still, the snake may leave the area, but if it doesn’t leave, back away from the snake slowly. Use your best judgment to keep yourself safe.
If a snake bites you, follow the directions in this publication: http://msucares.com/pubs/infosheets/is0641.pdf
Resources about Mississippi snakes
View these links for more information about snakes:
