MasonDixonMding
Elite Member
My guess is there are probably more detectors hurt by crazy people than snakes.
In my state the rattlesnakes are fast but not as fast as the copperheads and cottonmouths. I wonder if the much higher 100 plus degree temperatures here make them faster than their rattlesnake brethren in Wisconsin where the temperatures are lower?
I’ve worked with both timber rattlesnakes and eastern massasauga’s, and the sauga’s were far more aggressive, but topping out at just over 24”, the have a lot to be worried about. We had some animals with radio transmitters implanted and most didn’t survive: the transmitters were recovered under Great-horned Owl nest in owl pellets. The smaller snakes are more high-strung compared adults, even within species. Also, hunting strategy between them is different, with rattlesnakes being a more passive wait and strike vs copperheads/cottonmouths (Agkistrodon) being more active hunters. Sure, the warmer temperatures allow southern snakes to have a much larger activity window and more breeding success, but I think strike speed is more an environmental artifact than climate related. Even snake have upper temperature levels that they can tolerate, and become more nocturnal when things get too warm.
Our state's snake biologist for the department of wildlife and fisheries always said that snakes irregardless of species travel in exactly the same path from the time hibernation is over until hibernation begins again. In other words if the snake is under picnic table #10 at Wildwood state park at 10 AM on July 4, it will be there on July 4 every year at 10 AM. I do not think this is true. I think going after prey with their fantastic sense of smell and interaction with humans/animals makes this pattern of movement impossible. What do you think?
Also, a few years ago I had a huge mud snake known commonly as a black runner here sniff me out from over 40 yards away. It raised up the upper third of its body in the air and rotated around to keep me upwind to know where I was. Like you said some of them are exceptional at avoiding predators.
I dont think Ive seen a rattler that big before. I almost stepped on one about 10 years ago, but it was early in the morning and cold so it was still lethargic. We have the prairie rattlers, sometimes called the western timber rattler, and they are somewhat docile. Havent seen one in awhile since I saw one crossing the road in central WY about 3 years ago. I like when I see/hear them first.
Down in AZ is where the mohaves dwell, and they can be very aggressive. We've been snowbirding for awhile, but I have yet to see one. Id like to get some snake gaiters soon, but Im not sure that they would protect me from that monster in the pic.
I am glad venomous snakes are one thing I do not have to worry about here in the UK. Having spent a little time in the bush in RSA when I was younger, I saw enough to last me a life time...
I have to say though, if I lived with my family in a rural area,I would have zero tolerance of venomous snakes on my property or near by, especially if I had young children. Sorry if that offends the bunny huggers, but that's just the way it would be and that would be regardless of any local wildlife laws...
Out in the Sticks, I would very much be about avoidance and precautions, but back home, family would come first, regardless of how small the risk is perceived to be...
not many dangerous snakes around here. the timber rattler is supposed to be around but rare; i've never seen one. the copperheads are uncommon and I've seen plenty out near ragged mountian (well known climbing spot) and they have always been "non aggresive". even once climbed up to one, face first. it just sat there all sunning itself while I cleaned out my shorts.
They say the baby rattlesnakes are more dangerous than the big ones. Rumor is they can't control their venom output when biting?
I am glad venomous snakes are one thing I do not have to worry about here in the UK. Having spent a little time in the bush in RSA when I was younger, I saw enough to last me a life time...
I have to say though, if I lived with my family in a rural area,I would have zero tolerance of venomous snakes on my property or near by, especially if I had young children. Sorry if that offends the bunny huggers, but that's just the way it would be and that would be regardless of any local wildlife laws...
Out in the Sticks, I would very much be about avoidance and precautions, but back home, family would come first, regardless of how small the risk is perceived to be...
snakes on my property or near by, especially if I had young children. Sorry if that offends the bunny huggers, but that's just the way it would be and that would be regardless of any local wildlife laws
Thank you Pete.
Thank you, Pete, for what? Telling everyone he'd break the law if an animal scared him and may "endanger" his rugrats? You and Pete are the reason why so many people despise hunters and trappers. You think hunting and trapping laws don't apply to you on your land or when no one's looking. Pathetic.
Snakes don't scare me in particular, but I do have a good appreciation the danger many of the venomous varieties pose..So you'd break the law by killing any animal that scared you? Pathetic.