Some types of snakes hurt their prey by injecting venom through their canines. There are venoms that are so harmful to humans that they result in a condition we often refer to as "poisoning" (though technically it's called venom, not poison). Snakes are very likely to be encountered when climbing mountains or camping. So, before venturing out into the wild, know how to tell the difference between venomous and non-venomous snakes.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Identifying Common Traits
Step 1. Look at the head
Most venomous snakes often have a head that looks like a triangle.
Step 2. Observe the color
Some venomous snakes, such as coral snakes, have bright colors.
Step 3. Many people try to tell if a snake is venomous or not by looking at its eyes
This method is not effective because you can only find out when the snake was active that day. Nocturnal snakes (hunting at night) usually have slit-shaped pupils, while diurnal snakes (hunting during the day) usually have round pupils. Some of the world's most venomous snakes have round pupils, but many well-known venomous snakes such as the rattlesnake have the classic slit-shaped pupil.
Step 4. Look under the snake's eye and nostril
Venomous snakes usually have a heat-sensitive pit to locate warm-blooded prey. Non-venomous snakes don't have anything like this.
Step 5. See if there is a rattle
A snake that has a rattle on its tail is definitely a rattlesnake, which is a venomous snake. Florida pygmy rattlesnakes often have only one rattle segment and so cannot make a warning rattling sound.
Step 6. Note the underside of the snake's scales at the end of its tail
Most venomous snakes have a single row of scales in this area, while non-venomous snakes usually have two rows.
Step 7. If possible, check the base of the tail
The base of the snake's tail (behind the anus) looks the same as the rest of the stomach. If the snake has a cross pattern (like a diamond shape), it is not venomous. However, this sign is not easy to find, unless the snake is dead.
Step 8. Watch the water snake swimming
A venomous water snake swims with its entire body visible in the water.
Step 9. Check for bite marks in case of attack by a snake
Two bite marks that are close together indicate that the snake has fangs and is venomous. In contrast, the uneven bite indicates the snake has no fangs, a characteristic feature of non-venomous snakes.
Part 2 of 2: Know Some of the Exceptions
Step 1. Understand the exceptions to the above rule:
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Coral snakes are venomous but have a round head, whereas some non-venomous snakes may flatten their heads to resemble a triangle when they are threatened.
Differentiate Between Poisonous Snakes and Non Poisonous Snakes Step 10 - Some brightly colored snakes such as the brick striped snake, the red king snake, and the American milk snake are non-venomous.
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The black mamba, coral snake, cobra, and inland taipan are venomous snakes that have round pupils. Whether or not a snake is venomous has nothing to do with the shape of its pupils, it does tell when the snake is awake!
Differentiate Between Poisonous Snakes and Non Poisonous Snakes Step 12
Tips
- Don't kill snakes that don't attack you. Since snakes eat mice and pests, their presence helps in controlling the population of these creatures that can transmit disease to humans.
- If you want to catch a snake, a safe option is to use a snake trap.
- Search the internet for information about various venomous snakes in your area so you can have an idea of what they look like and help identify them if you encounter such a snake.
- If you're not sure if a snake is venomous or not, assume it's venomous and stay away!
- Don't step on the grass if you doubt a snake is hiding in it.
- If you are sprayed with cobras, washing clothes, camera lenses, and so on. Wear sunglasses.
- A non-venomous snake bite does not mean it is 100% safe. Non-venomous snakes may carry diseases that can infect you through their bites.
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If you are bitten by a venomous snake, make sure you recognize it! The highly recommended way is to take a clear picture of the snake from a safe distance using a cell phone. Recognizing snakes can save lives because it makes it easier for your doctor to administer antivenom to you.
Warning
- If you don't seek medical help right away after being bitten by a venomous snake, the consequences can be fatal.
- Don't try to handle a snake that hisses, creaks its tail, bends its neck in an S, or spit. The signs are a warning for you to stay away… or he will attack you.
- Even a non-venomous snake bite can cause infection. Seek medical attention and fully identify the snake that bit you.
- Don't try to handle wild snakes. If you are sure a snake is not venomous and will handle it, do so safely. A snake wand is an effective tool when used properly.
