Snake Sightings Are Expected To Drastically Increase Across Texas This Summer
By Katie Lawrence|Published July 28, 2020
×
Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Snakes are no rarity here in Texas, but they don’t come out all year. The slithering serpents are most active during the summer, which means it’s high time to start keeping an eye out. Here’s everything you need to know:
As temperatures continue to rise across the Lone Star State, so too will snake sightings. According to Texas A&M AgriLife experts, summer is primetime for snakes to emerge from their burrows.
Many snakes seen in Texas are non-venomous. These include garter snakes (or garden snakes), chicken snakes (also known as rat snakes), and bull snakes.
Conversely, the four most common venomous snakes – in South Texas, at least – copperheads, cottonmouths, rattlesnakes and coral snakes. If you see one of these types, avoid contact and keep a safe distance.
Coral snakes, whose bite can be fatal, are often mistaken for the non-venomous milk snake. Remember the saying "red touch yellow, kill a fellow, red touch black, friend of Jack" to help you identify the differences.
To minimize the likelihood of attracting snakes to your home, keep garages and sheds free of debris or clutter. Large piles of leaves should also never be left unattended.
If you or someone you know is bitten by a snake, get to a hospital ASAP. Initial symptoms may not appear for 24 hours, but they can include burning sensations around the puncture wounds, swelling, skin discoloration, blurred vision, and drowsiness. Always assume a snake is venomous, even if you aren't sure.
While awaiting the ambulance, disinfect the bite if possible and remove all jewelry from the affected area. Keep the limb below heart-level to slow the spread of venom, and never apply a tourniquet or attempt to remove the venom.
