Many people freeze when they hear the word “snake,” especially when talking about venomous ones. We fear the pain and agony that come with a venomous snakebite and are terrified of ever crossing paths with one. Even the state of Maryland has venomous snakes that you should be aware of.
There are 27 different snake species that live in Maryland, but two of them are significantly more venomous than the others. There’s little to fear, though. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only five of the 7,000 to 8,000 people who are bitten by venomous snakes in the US die.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent a snake bite or ever encountering one of the venomous snakes in Annapolis. In this article, we’re sharing essential information about these snakes, how to identify them and how to protect yourself and loved ones.
The Most Venomous Snakes in Annapolis
There are two very venomous snakes in Annapolis: the copperhead and timber rattlesnake. They are both pit vipers and come from the crotalinae subfamily.
If you are bitten by one of these snakes, the venom could show adverse effects that need immediate medical attention.
This venom isn’t all bad, though. Some studies have shown that the venom from copperheads and timber rattlesnakes has medical benefits. For example, copperhead venom has shown that it attacks breast cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
Identifying Venomous Snakes
Luckily for us, there are some telling physical signs that a snake could be dangerously venomous. It’s important to learn how to identify nonvenomous from venomous snakes, especially when it comes to protecting ourselves from them.
The two critical characteristics to look for to identify a venomous snake in Annapolis are a triangular head that bulges on the sides and elliptical pupils. Do not approach snakes with these qualities as they could be dangerous.
What to Do if You See a Snake
There are two types of people when it comes to snakes. The first freeze in fear at the sight of one. The second type is curious and wants to get closer and even touch the snake. If you see a snake in the woods or your backyard, leave it alone.
Do not pick the snake up and try to move it – even if you have a long stick or a rake. They will move along eventually.
Most bites happen when people try to get a closer look or move the snake because it feels threatened and scared. Simply leave it alone and admire it from afar.
How to Handle a Snake Bite
Now, if you follow the tips in this article, hopefully, you’ll never have to handle a snake bite. But, just in case, we’re going to share with you exactly what to do and what not to do in this situation.
Do Not
- Pack the bite with ice
- Suck the venom out
- Cut around the bite
- Apply a tourniquet
Do
- Stay calm
- Get to an emergency room or call 911
- Let professionals take care of it
Protecting Yourself from Snakes While Hiking or Camping
During the summer months, many people come to Annapolis to hike and camp around our beautiful state. Of course, one of the risks of being out in nature and in a snake’s habitat is seeing them.
There are a few ways to protect yourself from snake bites and reduce the chance of coming in contact with one.
The first thing you should do is consider your clothing. If you’re hiking through tall grass, wear long pants and heavy boots. Make sure to stay on hiking trails with foot traffic, as snakes will likely stay away.
Avoid touching or digging through piles of rocks or wood. Snakes often hide in these piles, thanks to the cool temperature and darkness.
If you’re camping in the woods, be conscious of where you place your sleeping bag or where you sit. Stay away from rock and woodpiles and check the area before setting up your tent.
Keeping Snakes Away from Your Home
Snakes aren’t only found in the woods. They can be right in your backyard too!
The best way to protect yourself from snakes in your yard is to prevent them from being there in the first place.
Make sure to keep your grass cut short so you can see if a snake is slithering through your yard. Also, don’t overwater your lawn. Snakes are attracted to moisture, and this is an open invitation for all the snakes in Annapolis to come and join.
Don’t pile rocks or wood near the house as snakes like to crawl inside of them and stay. Instead, move them away from the house and along the perimeter of your yard.
Lastly, eliminate rodents and pests from your home or property. Since snakes feast on mice, rats, and other pests, these will attract venomous snakes in Annapolis to your property and possibly into your home.
If you do happen to have some snakes on your property, make sure to protect yourself while out in the yard. This includes wearing heavy-duty gloves while gardening or doing any type of yard work where your hands are on or near the ground. This will protect you from a surprised snake going in for a bite.
Annapolis’s Number One Solution to Preventing Snakes
Brody Brothers Pest Control is here to help you prevent snakes from coming onto your property. As the leading Annapolis pest exterminator, we get right to the source to keep venomous snakes away from your home.
We will come and exterminate any type of rodent or pest you may have scurrying around your property. These mice and rats are just calling for snakes to come in and enjoy their next meal. These unwanted dinner guests will stay away from your home when we get rid of these critters once and for all.
With state-of-the-art technology and methods, we will remove unwelcomed pests quickly and effectively. As a result, your home and property will be snake-free.
Contact us to learn more about our extermination services and how we can help protect you from venomous snakes in Annapolis today!
