Venomous Snakes of Colorado
What’s the deal with snakes? Mostly, they seem like a nuisance – at worst, a threat. What are you supposed to do when you see a snake? How many are venomous? How do you ensure your pet is safe around them? If these are questions on your mind, you have come to the right place. Let’s slither in!
Poisonous Snakes in Colorado
Let’s get the most concerning and burning question addressed first – are there poisonous snakes to worry about? The three snake species that are venomous in Colorado are all types of rattlesnakes: Prairie, Midget Faded, and Western Massasauga.
Luckily, rattlesnakes are easily identifiable as different from non-venomous snakes. The easiest way to distinguish them is whether or not they have rattles at the end of their tales. Their bodies are thicker and their heads more triangular with a much slimmer neck. Check out this helpful graphic to identity the difference:
What Do You Do When You See a Rattlesnake?
Should you cross paths with a rattler, here is what to and not to do according to Colorado’s Venomous and Non-Venomous Snakes: Stay away! Snakes can sense the vibration of your steps. Keep calm: quick movements can cause them to startle. Remember that we are not their prey.
What Happens If Bitten
Did you know 25% of rattlesnake bites are dry, so non-venomous? Regardless, it is crucial to seek medical attention should you be bit. It is actually a myth that you should try to suck out the venom, and this can make things worse off. According to the aforementioned article,“the human mouth is full of bacteria that can cause infection, which would make treatment more complicated.”
It is important to stay as calm and still as possible to reduce the likelihood of an increased heart rate or swelling from occurring. Interestingly, you should let the wound bleed rather than trying to stop it. This is because the bleeding can release some of the venom.
Similarly, you should not try to wash the wound because doctors would need that venom to assess proper treatment. Lots of the “go-to” treatments of wounds like this and not stopping the bleeding contradict what we are trained to think, including: “don’t raise the affected area above your chest as that will allow the venom to reach your heart more quickly.”
I don’t know about you, but treating a snake bite was not something I was familiar with. As someone who likes to hike in areas where rattlesnakes may be, I am so glad to know this now, especially knowing how different emergency treatment may be from other wound types.
Keeping You and Your Pets Safe
Make sure you are staying aware if you are hiking or walking – these creatures tend to blend in, so you have to keep your eyes peeled for their distinct skin pattern. Watch where you step!
Make sure you are looking ahead rather than just down – keep your eyes a few steps ahead. Especially if you are in an area that rattlesnakes are known for, make sure you keep your pet on a leash to ensure they don’t go off sniffing for a not-so-friendly surprise.
If you are walking in a specifically grassy area, consider sweeping over where you step with a long stick. Make sure you avoid jumping over logs, turning over rocks, or reaching into rock crevices.
Leave The Nature Be
Per usual, snakes fall into the category of minding your business when in nature. If you don’t mess with snakes and keep a respectful distance, they shouldn’t mess with you! Make sure your pet is well trained with the ability to “leave it” should something slitthery catch their eye.
