Ask an Expert – Making Sense of Snakes this Summer

By: Nicki Frey, Utah State University Extension wildlife specialist, Nicki.Frey@usu.edu

Humans aren’t the only ones eager for the summer sun. Snakes are out in abundance and can be found warming up along roads, sunning on rocks, and slithering casually to their next meal. And with more people hitting the trails this spring, reports of snakes and snakebites are increasing.

The good news? Most of Utah’s 31 snake species are non-venomous – only seven produce venom. And, most Utah snakes are nocturnal, so you likely won’t often see them. Snakes are ectotherms, or cold-blooded, meaning they get their warmth from the environment. 

As the sun warms our rocky Utah landscapes, snakes use it to their advantage to heat up and save energy. Most snakes encountered during the day are curled up and napping. When they are startled by humans walking, climbing, or sitting next to them, they may strike; however, most snakes generally want to go unnoticed. 

Almost all venomous snakes in Utah are rattlesnakes, classified as pit vipers (Viperidae). They release their venom when biting targets with two sharp fangs. The garter snake (Thamnophis elegans) is venomous, but does not have fangs. It releases its venom when feeding. Rattlesnakes’ thick bodies, rough scales, and distinct necks give them a diamond-shaped head, making them relatively easy to distinguish. No diamond-shaped head? No worry.

Terrestrial garter snakes and gopher snakes (Pituophis catenifer; also called bull snakes) can often look similar to rattlesnakes in Utah. While seeing one in your backyard may make you run for the shovel – but WAIT! Garter snakes and gopher snakes are your backyard best friends. Garter snakes eat common garden pests such as grasshoppers, worms, large invertebrates, and even mice. Gopher snakes eat small mammals, other snakes, lizards, and insects. These two snakes are not aggressive and can live in your yard for years before being noticed. Like all snakes, they would prefer to be left alone, but canbite if you try to handle them. 

While dangerous, rattlesnakes are also mild-mannered. They are timid and usually hide, using their rattle to avoid confrontation. Unprovoked rattlesnake bites are rare. Their bodies need to be coiled to strike; if it is moving along a path, it has no intention of striking and would like to just go away. Rattlesnake diets vary by species, but some can eat animals as large as rabbits. 

 Consider these tips to avoid a snake confrontation:

• Be aware of where you walk, sit, and play outdoors. Utah’s rocky terrain and intense sun are perfect for snakes. Rock climbers are particularly susceptible to accidental encounters. 
• If you suddenly realize you are too close to a snake, quietly move away, giving it room and time to leave. Sudden loud noises can startle the snake into a defensive move, which is often to bite. So be sure to stifle a scream!
• If you see a snake, admire it from a distance. Give it space so it doesn’t feel cornered and defensive and can move to a place where it feels safe.  
• Don’t touch the snake – seriously! Many bites happen because people get curious and try to touch them.
• If you feel inspired to take a picture, stay far enough away that the snake doesn’t show signs of alarm or stress. Do not corner or trap it. This will encourage it to defend itself by biting. If a rattlesnake begins to coil, quickly and quietly create distance between you and it.
• If you hear rattling, freeze. Look around to locate the snake, back cautiously away to a safe distance, then leave the area. Don’t jump or run, since you could end up going toward it, depending on how it moves. 

What to do if a rattlesnake bites:

1. Stay calm and still. Movement increases venom distribution.
2. Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol. Cover it with a cleanbandage to prevent infection.
3. Be aware of the following:

• Do not kill the snake.
• Rattlesnake venom doesn’t travel through our veins. Do not apply a tourniquet. 
• Do not use venom extractors or slice the wound.
• Do not apply ice.

4. Do not take medication until advised by a medical professional. If possible, take a photo of the snake for identification. This helps determine the venom type, though all bites are treated with the same anti-venom.
5. Seek medical help immediately.

• Call 911 if you’re not close to a hospital or if the victim cannot walk safely.
• If you’re near a hospital, call ahead so they can prepare the anti-venom.

6. Remove tight items like rings or watches from the bite area, as swelling will occur quickly.
7. Monitor symptoms closely.

• Watch for swelling, skin discoloration, nausea, rapid pulse, loss of coordination, or neurological symptoms.
• Check for breathing or heart rate increase, and watch for signs of shock.

8. If you are a victim and alone, lie flat and remain still. Call 911 and follow instructions.

Stay safe as you savor the summer sun, and be mindful of rattling reptiles.