The Truth About Snakes in Your Garden
Snakes are a common sight in gardens and backyards worldwide. While they can be a beneficial addition as they help control pests like rodents and insects, many people are concerned about their safety. One of the most common questions people ask is whether gardening snakes are poisonous. In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind this common misconception and provide some guidelines on how to handle these slithery creatures in your garden.
Types of Snakes in Gardens
There are many species of snakes found in gardens, including venomous and non-venomous ones. Some of the most common species in North America are:
- Garter Snake
- Rat Snake
- King Snake
- Milk Snake
- Corn Snake
The Difference Between Poisonous and Venomous
Before we dive into the topic, it’s essential to understand the difference between poisonous and venomous. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are not the same. Poisonous animals use toxins to defend themselves against predators, while venomous animals use venom to hunt prey or defend themselves. Venom has to be injected into the body by fangs, stingers, or spines, while poison can be ingested or absorbed through the skin.
The short answer is NO. There are no poisonous snakes in North America. However, there are venomous snakes, which are often mistaken for being poisonous. When people refer to a snake as poisonous, they mean that the snake can poison them by touch or ingestion. This is not true for venomous snakes. You have to be bitten by a venomous snake to be affected by its venom.
Venomous Snakes in North America
There are four types of venomous snakes found in North America:
- Rattlesnakes
- Copperheads
- Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins)
- Coral Snakes
How to Identify Venomous Snakes
It’s not easy to identify venomous snakes, especially if you don’t have experience in handling them. A general rule of thumb is that venomous snakes have a triangular-shaped head, vertical pupils, and heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils. They also have a rattle at the end of their tails, which they use to warn predators and prey before attacking.
Non-venomous snakes, on the other hand, have a round head, round pupils, and no heat-sensing pits. They also have a tapered tail with no rattle. However, some non-venomous snakes, such as the Hognose Snake, can mimic venomous snakes by flattening their heads and hissing loudly.
What to Do if You Encounter a Snake in Your Garden
If you encounter a snake in your garden, the first thing to do is to stay calm. Most snakes are not aggressive, and they will not attack you unless they feel threatened. If you see a snake in your garden, follow these steps:
- Keep a safe distance from the snake. Stay at least six feet away from it.
- Identify the snake. If you’re not sure what species it is, assume it’s venomous and call a professional to remove it.
- Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake. This will only make it more agitated and increase the risk of a bite.
- Call a professional snake removal service. They have the experience and equipment to safely remove the snake from your property.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gardening snakes are not poisonous. However, there are venomous snakes that you should be aware of, especially if you live in an area with a high population of snakes. If you encounter a snake in your garden, stay calm, keep a safe distance, and call a professional to remove it. Remember, snakes are an essential part of the ecosystem, and they can help control pests in your garden. Treat them with respect, and they will not harm you.