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VENOMOUS

Beware: Venomous Reptiles
In the United States and Canada, only 21 species of snakes and one lizard are venomous, which means that they are able to pass venom into a victim through a bite. The venomous species are the pit vipers (15 rattlesnakes, the Copperhead, and the Cottonmouth), three coral snakes, the Yellow-bellied Sea Snake (a rare visitor off southern California), and the Gila Monster. These species rarely bite people. Most bite only when harassed.


Prairie Rattlesnake striking a mouse. © Alan Blank - Bruce Coleman, Inc.

What Is Venom?
Venom is a brew of substances called enzymes, which can attack the blood, muscles, organs, and the central nervous system. Most venoms have more than one of these enzymes.
What’s Yellow and Black and Red All Over?
A coral snake. The snout is black at the tip and the red rings around the body are bordered by yellow on either side. The front fangs are short and fixed.
   
Eastern Coral Snake © Allen Blake Sheldon

How Can You Identify a Pit Viper?
Look for eyes with vertical pupils, a tiny pit in the face between the eye and the nostril, a spear-shaped head, long hinged fangs, and a stout body.
   
Copperhead (a pit viper). © David M. Dennis


Cottonmouth © David M. Dennis
    Warning!
Copperheads, Cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes are patterned to blend in with their surroundings. If a predator threatens, the rattlesnake will warn it away by vibrating its rattle, made up of horny segments at the tip of its tail. If all else fails, the snake will bite with its large fangs. Pit vipers are able to direct a strike in total darkness.

Monster Lizard
There is only one venomous lizard in the United States, the well-named Gila Monster. Anyone foolish enough to mess with this creature is in for a very powerful and painful bite. The venom is usually not deadly to humans, but once it bites down, the Gila Monster does not like to let go.
   
Gila Monster © Gerald & Buff Corsi - Focus on Nature, Inc.

How to Avoid Venomous Snakebite
Before you venture out, learn to recognize venomous species so that you can instantly identify them.
• Find out which venomous species live in your area and the habitats where you are likely to encounter them.
• Always go in the field with a friend and wear boots and loose-fitting pants.
• Watch where you place your hands and feet, especially when climbing or stepping over fences, large rocks, and logs.
• If you see (or hear) venomous reptiles, keep your distance. Do not go near them or try to touch them.

What to Do If Bitten
Venomous snakebites are rare, and they rarely kill humans. But if you are bitten by a venomous snake, you must go to a hospital and be treated. If bitten, move away from the snake and remain calm. Immobilize the bitten part, if possible, and go to a medical center. Do not "cut and suck" wounds, drink alcohol, or apply a tourniquet.


Red DiamondRattlesnake © Tom McHugh - Photo Researchers, Inc.
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