Missouri Outdoor

With the coming of warmer weather, it is time again to start watching for snakes.

Missouri has 46 species of snakes. Most of our snakes are harmless. Although many may bite in self-defense, their bites usually produce nothing more than harmless scratches. There are only 5 species of venomous snakes in all of Missouri. Here are the two most widely distributed of the five.

Osage Copperhead

This is the most common of the venomous species, measuring 24 to 36 inches. The color varies from grayish brown to tan with hour glass shaped cross bands. The head may have some pink or orange color, hence the name “copperhead”.

Copperheads live on rocky hillsides and forst edges. They also may be found near abandoned farm buildings.

Although there is no record of human death caused by a copperhead bite in this state, caution is advised. And if bitten medical treatment is necessary.

Timber Rattlesnake

This is Missouri’s largest venomous snake. Generally tan, the timber rattler has dark markings along the back which change from blotches on the neck to bands near the tail. It has a large rattle at the end of it’s tail giving it an impressing over all length of 36 to 6o inches.

This rattlesnake usually inhabits rocky, wooded hillsides, but in Missouri it usually can be found in selected south facing rocky areas. So be careful in these areas.

These snakes are highly venomous, but breath easy there are few cases of rattlesnake bites in Missouri.

Just remember if you are out in Missouri’s great outdoors, encounters with venomous snakes can be prevented by doing the following:

1) Stay away from areas that could be inhabited by venomous snakes, such as, swamps, marshes, and bluffs.

2) Wear protective foot wear. Thick leather or rubber boots or high-top hiking shoes will protect feet, ankles and legs.

3) Never place hands under rocks or logs; do not step over rocks or logs. Step on them first, then over.

4) Avoid any snake you cannot identify.

Following these simple rules will make your walks in the Missouri woods safer and more enjoyable.

David Kellner

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