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Treatment of Their Bites, by John E. Werler

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Title: Poisonous Snakes of Texas and First Aid Treatment of Their Bites
Bulletin No. 31

Author: John E. Werler

Release Date: November 21, 2017 [EBook #56021]

Language: English

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TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

POISONOUS SNAKES OF TEXAS

AND FIRST AID TREATMENT
OF THEIR BITES
BULLETIN NO. 31

Originally published February 1950

Revised February 1952
Reprinted May 1960
Revised July 1963; May 1964
 Reprinted Jan. 1967
Reprinted Jan. 1969
Reprinted August 1970

By
JOHN E. WERLER
Director, Houston Zoological Gardens

Published by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Austin, Texas
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 4
PRECAUTIONS AT HOME 5
PROTECTION IN THE FIELD 7
RECOGNIZING THE POISONOUS KINDS 8
THE PIT VIPERS 12
THE COPPERHEADS 13
Southern 14
Northern 16
Broadbanded 18
Trans-Pecos 20
THE COTTONMOUTH 22
Western Cottonmouth 22
THE RATTLESNAKES 25
Western Massasauga 26
Western Pigmy 28
Western Diamondback 30
Timber 34
Canebrake 36
Banded Rock 38
Mottled Rock 40
Blacktailed 42
Mojave 44
Prairie 46
THE ELAPID SNAKES 48
Texas Coral 48
VENOMS 52
DIAGNOSING THE BITE 53
SEVERITY OF THE BITE 54
FIRST AID TREATMENT 55
SUGGESTIONS TO PHYSICIANS 57
BIBLIOGRAPHY 61
FILMS 62
 INTRODUCTION
This Bulletin has been prepared in response to many requests from hunters,
ranchers, telephone construction personnel, Boy Scouts and others who
spend much time outdoors, for a concise and illustrated guide to the
poisonous snakes of Texas. The information presented is merely an outline
of the poisonous snakes found within the state and is not intended to replace
the several excellent snake books now on the market.

Sixteen species and subspecies of poisonous snakes, belonging to four

general groups, are found in Texas. The most characteristic features of each
are described. A photograph accompanies each description and a map
indicating the snake’s known range by counties is included. With this
information, the reader should have little difficulty recognizing the
poisonous snakes found in his region and, should he be required to render
first aid for snake bite, the text and photos covering this subject will help
him to do the job successfully.

A number of persons have extended help during the current revision of this
booklet. I am most indebted to Alvin Flury, information and education
officer for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, who not only did much
of the necessary legwork for the project, but who also provided the impetus
that saw it to completion. Thanks are due also to the following persons for
county records of poisonous snakes in Texas: Ralph W. Axtell, Richard J.
Baldauf, Edward W. Bonn, Bryce C. Brown, James R. Dixon, Alvin Flury,
John W. Forsyth, W. C. Glazener, W. Grainger Hunt, L. M. Klauber, Verlin
Nethery, Floyd Potter, Kirk Preston, Stephen Preston, Gerald G. Raun,
Michael Sabath, Joe T. Stevens, Ernest C. Tanzer, Donald W. Tinkle, Clay
Touchstone and John Wooters. Live specimens for making photographs used
here were provided by Russell J. Long, Rusty Martin, Ernest C. Tanzer, Clay
Touchstone and Lawrence Curtis. Finally, I wish to thank Robert L. Carlisle,
Joseph F. Gennaro, Richard MacAllister, Don W. Micks, J. Fred Mullins, A.
C. Stimson and John H. Werler for other information and assistance.
 JOHN E. WERLER

POISONOUS SNAKES OF TEXAS

AND FIRST AID TREATMENT
OF THEIR BITES
It is widely known among snake bite authorities that more persons die from
snake bite in Texas than in any other state of the nation. This startling fact
should encourage every Texan to obtain a thorough working knowledge of
the correct first aid treatment for snake bite so he will be prepared to act
promptly in the event of an emergency. In addition, and perhaps just as
important, he should learn how to prevent a bite before it can happen. This
means knowing where to expect poisonous snakes, how to avoid them, and
how to identify on sight the venomous kinds found in the region where he
lives.
 PRECAUTIONS AT HOME
Statistics show that a large percentage of all bites takes place near the home
and more than a few of these are inflicted upon small children playing in
their yards. Therefore, let us consider first the possible presence of
poisonous snakes around the home and some precautions that can be taken to
keep them away.

Each year Texas zoos receive calls from distressed home owners within city
limits who have discovered rattlesnakes or copperheads under their houses
or beneath trash piles on their property. These people ask for assistance in
the removal of the snakes or for advice which may prevent similar future
invasions. The trespassing snake often can be disposed of quickly, but the
removal of one snake does not always solve the problem. Something must be
done to discourage other snakes from taking residence on the grounds.

The steps to be taken are simple; chief among them is the removal of all
rubbish. Rock piles, trash piles, stacked lumber, tree stumps and other forms
of debris near or under houses often harbor rats and mice which form the
principal food of most snakes. In addition, this trash furnishes cover for the
reptiles and offers them protection from enemies and bad weather.
Therefore, if all rubbish is removed from the premises, the food and shelter
which attract snakes are largely eliminated and the snakes are forced to seek
a more suitable environment. Dense, low growing plants may also supply
cover for snakes.

Finally, the removal of rubbish and dense vegetation enables the homeowner
to easily see and destroy poisonous snakes that may be present. In settled
areas, however, where poisonous snakes are particularly abundant and
present a serious problem, it may be necessary to take further protective
measures.

Dr. C. M. Bogert of the American Museum of Natural History has suggested

the use of a quarter-inch mesh wire fence to keep snakes off residential
property. This yard-high, snake-proof fence is placed around the house in
much the same manner as an ordinary picket fence, except that the bottom
must be set about six inches into the ground to prevent snakes forcing their
way beneath it. In addition, all gates must be provided with close-fitting sills
on the bottoms and sides to insure a completely tight enclosure.

Experiments with fences of this kind were made to determine their

effectiveness and to seek possible improvements in their construction, with
the result that one important change was made. Copperheads and small
rattlesnakes could not get over the vertically-straight fence, but a six-foot
rattlesnake used in the experiment was able to climb over it. When the same
fence was tilted outward at a 30-degree angle, not even the largest snake was
able to reach the top. Although such fences are expensive and difficult to
keep in good repair, they may be desirable under some circumstances.

A less costly method of keeping snakes away from residential property has
been proposed by the manufacturers of a new chemical that allegedly repels
and kills snakes. The product, a granular material with a civet musk odor, is
reported by its distributors to kill a snake less than two feet in length if it is
exposed longer than 20 seconds. Preliminary tests made at the Houston Zoo
indicate that, in spite of claims to the contrary, the material had little effect
on the snakes used. Each of more than a dozen different specimens,
including examples of all the local poisonous kinds, unhesitatingly crawled
through a wide barrier of the repellent that was poured on the ground. In
some instances, the snake’s tongue contacted the granules, but none of the
test reptiles showed any ill effects from exposure to the chemical. While
these crude tests are certainly not conclusive, it would seem advisable to use
commercial repellents with some reservations until they can be proved
effective. Meanwhile, we can still prevent most snake bites by observing a
few simple safe practices.
 PROTECTION IN THE FIELD
In the field, where poisonous snakes are more common, they present a
greater hazard to human life; consequently, campers, crop farmers and others
who spend a great deal of time outdoors should necessarily take more care in
avoiding snake bites. Because almost all snake bites are inflicted on the arms
or legs of the victim, these limbs require special protection. The use of a
little caution, when placing hands or feet where snakes may be partially or
completely hidden from view, is the best protection you can give them. This
is particularly true when climbing hand-over-hand on rocky ledges, where
your hands reach the level of the ledge before your eyes do. Rattlesnakes and
copperheads are partial to such rocky hillsides and here, especially during
the warm days of early spring, they prefer to coil and sun themselves.

Armadillo and pack rat burrows also make excellent shelters for rattlesnakes,
and only a reckless person would find an excuse to reach into one of these
holes. Yet one year, in South Texas alone, at least two snake bites occurred
when the victims, each in search of small game, reached into armadillo holes
and were bitten by rattlesnakes coiled there.
Another way to invite snake bite is to thoughtlessly turn over a log with bare
hands or to step over one without first looking to see whether a snake is
coiled on the other side. Many snakes, particularly the copperhead and coral
snake, are fond of hiding beneath or within decaying logs, as any snake
collector will testify, and such a log is at all times to be considered a
potential snake den. If a log must be moved, use a long stick as a pry-bar.
Stepping over a log will be less risky if boots or high-top shoes are worn, but
even then it is safer to see first what is on the other side.

Several types of footwear offer good protection against the bites of most
snakes. Especially effective are high-top leather shoes, riding boots, rubber
boots or a combination of army “paratrooper shoes” and heavy leather
puttees. Probably the best of these is a snakeproof boot made of extra heavy
bullhide leather, sold by the Gokey Company, 94 East 4th Street, St. Paul,
Minnesota. For protection of the legs above the knees, snakeproof pants that
weigh little more than ordinary duck trousers are available. They consist of
three thicknesses of duck material and one layer of fine wire mesh, flexible
enough to allow easy knee movement. Snakeproof leggings of similar
material can be purchased for safeguarding just the lower legs. Recently
marketed aluminum leggings furnish good protection in many cases, but
some brands tested were too thin and easily damaged; others were too
uncomfortable.

If a poisonous snake is discovered close by, the best protection is to remain

as still as possible until the snake has moved away. It should be remembered
that a snake is quick to strike at a moving object, so to quickly step away at
such a moment may be disastrous. If a rattlesnake is heard nearby but cannot
be located, do not begin a wild dash for safety. Location of the snake may be
misjudged and by taking a step you are likely to walk into, rather than away
from, it. Again, remain still until the snake is sighted and, when it is certain
the snake is at least five or six feet away and no others are nearby, slowly
back away. If you must move away, do so as slowly as possible.

Because our native poisonous snakes are mostly nocturnal in their activities,
remaining hidden during the day and emerging at night in search of food, a
flashlight should be used by persons who find it necessary to travel through
snake country after dark. During the cool days of spring and autumn,
however, nocturnal habits are often reversed. During the day snakes search
for warm spots in which to sun themselves; by nightfall they are again under
cover.

None of our poisonous Texas snakes ordinarily can strike more than three-
quarters of its body length, unless it has a firm backing or is striking
downward from an incline. Certainly none has the ability to jump at an
enemy, a feat often attributed to the rattlesnake. A snake on the defensive is
coiled with the forward part of its body in a loose S position. When striking,
this coil is straightened out and the head is thrust forward. It is not necessary
for a snake to strike from a coil in order to bite. If picked up near the head, it
may simply turn, open its mouth and bite the hand.

It is dangerous to believe, as many do, that a water moccasin cannot bite

under water, and woe to the person who dares to seize a submerged
cottonmouth.
 RECOGNIZING THE POISONOUS KINDS
Suppose, in spite of attention to the precautions and protective measures just
outlined, someone is bitten by an unidentified snake. Certainly the victim
would not wish to delay treatment if the snake were poisonous, because
every minute wasted would make recovery more difficult. On the other
hand, he would not care to undergo either the pain associated with snake bite
treatment or the anxiety following a bite if a harmless snake were the cause
of the accident. Yet time and again people have been bitten by harmless
snakes and have been needlessly given first aid and hospital treatment
because the offending snake was incorrectly classified as poisonous. Still
others have been bitten by harmless snakes and died from nothing more than
fright.

When recognition of the snake is doubtful, it should, if possible, be killed

and taken to a hospital or doctor’s office for correct identification. Always
keep in mind, however, that a recently killed poisonous snake may still be
potentially dangerous. Even after its head is cut from the body, a reptile is
capable of marked reflex activity; merely touching the head may cause it to
bite. To be on the safe side, use a stick to lift or carry a dead snake.

It is evident that the ability to distinguish between harmless and poisonous

snakes goes hand in hand with a knowledge of proper first aid treatment.
Ability to recognize a poisonous snake on sight can best be achieved by a
study of live poisonous kinds and a comparison of them with harmless
species. At many zoos, where both kinds are on display in glass-fronted
cages, they may be examined safely. If a zoo is not conveniently near, an
examination of photographs showing the different kinds is probably the next
best way to become familiar with them.

It is generally considered by the layman that four kinds of poisonous snakes

are found in the United States—the rattlesnake, cottonmouth, copperhead
and coral snake. This grouping, although somewhat arbitrary and certainly
not zoologically correct, is firmly established in the minds of most people
and may very well be here to stay. Nevertheless, a more accurate and
scientific approach is possible if we consider each species and subspecies as
a different kind.

Illustrations in this booklet show the 16 kinds (species and subspecies) of

poisonous snakes known in Texas. These photographs, together with
descriptions in the text, should aid in identification. The accompanying
distribution map for each form has been compiled from county records based
on museum specimens, but in a few cases reliable “sight” records have been
used as proof of a snake’s occurrence within a county.

Distribution of snakes within Texas is incompletely known because of a lack

of reliable records; for this reason, the distribution maps are necessarily far
from complete. It is hoped, however, that the lists will be brought up to date
as new localities come to light. If the reader can make any additions to the
present lists, he is asked to communicate with the author or to deliver
specimens to the nearest large college, zoo or museum maintaining a
zoological collection.

Only 16 of the approximately 106 different kinds of snakes found in the state
are dangerously poisonous to man, and some are so rare that they are seldom
seen. In addition, we have in Texas several species of smaller snakes known
as opisthoglyphs, each possessing a mild venom and a set of small grooved
fangs far back in the upper jaw. Because of their weak and limited supply of
venom and small fangs, which are poorly adapted for injecting poison into
large animals, these rear-fanged snakes are considered harmless to man. By
far, the majority of species are small, being not more than 15 inches long and
about three-sixteenths of an inch thick. In this group are the blackheaded
snakes (genus Tantilla) found over most of the state. The slightly larger
spotted night snakes (genus Hypsiglena) of west and central Texas have
enlarged but ungrooved teeth in the upper jaw. Two Mexican rear-fanged
snakes, found as far north as the Brownsville region, are somewhat larger.
They are the blackstriped snake (Coniophanes imperialis imperialis) which
grows to about 20 inches in length, and the Texas cat-eye snake (Leptodeira
annulata septentrionalis), which reaches a length of about three feet. Still
another species, the very rare Texas lyre snake (Trimorphodon vilkinsonii), is
known from extreme western Texas. It is generally less than three feet long.
In spite of the small percentage of poisonous kinds of snakes in the state, it
must be made clear that no one general rule can be used safely to identify all
of them at a glance. It is a mistaken idea that all venomous snakes have
broad, triangular heads. On the contrary, by using this rule, many of our
harmless snakes look more dangerous than do some poisonous kinds.
Furthermore, this generalization is made useless by several exceptions, a
notable example being the coral snake which has a round head and does not
look at all poisonous.

Even the characteristic rattle is not always present to make a rattlesnake’s

identification certain. Sometimes the snake’s rattle is accidentally broken
off, in which case this identifying appendage is gone. Then, too, a
rattlesnake often is coiled in such a way that its rattles are concealed beneath
a loop of its body. Again, the tell-tale rattle is not visible and it is necessary
to recognize the snake by some other means.

Disregard all so-called “easy” rules by which poisonous snakes may be

identified; instead, learn to know each one by its general overall appearance.
For example, to identify the cottonmouth, look for a combination of its most
characteristic features—relatively short, stout body and a broad, flat head.
Also look for a body color of black, dark brown or olive and from 10 to 15
wide, usually indistinct, crossbands which are generally lighter in the center
than on the edges. The upper jaw below the eye, as well as the lower jaw,
will be light colored in contrast to the dark color above the eye. Together,
these characteristics will make identification quite certain at a reasonable
distance. Remember that the young of this snake are colored differently from
the adults and you will not be able to identify the juvenile by using the color
characteristics of the adult snake.
 THE PIT VIPERS
Our poisonous Texas snakes belong to two families—the Viperidae
(subfamily Crotalinae—pit vipers) and the Elapidae (cobra-like snakes).
The pit vipers, which include rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths,
possess an opening on either side of the head, between the eye and the
nostril. With these heat-sensitive pits, the snake can locate warm-blooded
prey in the dark and make a direct hit upon a rat or mouse which it cannot
see.

Snakes belonging to this family are further characterized by the possession

of elliptical eye pupils, somewhat triangular-shaped heads and long,
movable fangs in the front of the upper jaw. Each fang is connected by a
tube to the poison gland located just behind the eye. When the snake is at
rest and its mouth is closed, the fangs lie folded back against the roof of the
mouth. During the strike, the mouth is opened so that the upper and lower
jaws form an angle of nearly 180 degrees. The fangs are then erected to
point almost directly forward. With the fangs in this position, the strike
results in a stabbing action rather than a true bite.
 THE COPPERHEADS
Four kinds of copperheads are known in Texas. They are much smaller and
more slender than the closely related cottonmouth and, because they have
proportionately smaller fangs and less venom, are not very dangerous to
man. The four copperheads resemble one another by having the same
general pattern of chestnut or reddish-brown crossbands on a lighter body
color. Differences are based mostly on the size and shape of crossbands and
in the degree of marking present on the belly.

Copperheads are most common in rocky areas of hilly or mountainous

country, as well as in wooded bottomlands. They are rarely seen in dry,
cactus country. Although spending most of their time on the ground,
copperheads occasionally climb bushes and low trees in search of food.
Along the Colorado River near Wharton, they were observed high in trees;
some were 40 feet above the ground. The snakes reached these unusual
heights by crawling along wild grape vines that clung to the tree trunks and
draped over lower limbs. One snake hunter in the area collected nearly 100
copperheads by pulling them off the branches.

Copperheads do most of their feeding at night. During the spring in some

parts of the state, they are found in large numbers along streams and other
moist areas, where they spend most of the day hidden beneath decaying logs
and other debris which affords good cover. Copperheads also can be
expected when air temperatures are high, and when the soil and vegetation
are wet from recent rain. They often make their homes within the suburbs of
large cities where, due to their nocturnal habits and protective coloration,
they are apt to be overlooked.

Not quick to seek cover when approached, copperheads prefer to lie

perfectly still until an intruder has passed. Once molested, they frequently
vibrate their tails and, if among dry leaves, produce a buzzing sound not
unlike that made by a rattlesnake. Copperheads are quick to strike at any
annoying object, and often bite several times in rapid succession.
Copperheads seldom deliver a fatal bite because of their short fangs and
small size. Their strike is often blocked by a mere trouser leg. Records of the
Antivenin Institute of America show that during a 10-year period, not a
single death resulted from 308 recorded copperhead bites regardless of the
lack or kind of treatment given victims. In spite of these reassuring figures, it
must be remembered that the copperhead is potentially a dangerous snake,
especially when the bite involves a child. All bites from this species should
receive the same urgent consideration given the bite of a diamondback
rattlesnake.

The four forms of copperheads occurring in Texas are the only kinds found
in the United States.

SOUTHERN COPPERHEAD
Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix
Description—Lighter in color than the other copperheads, this form has a
body color of light brown or tan, often with a pinkish tinge. Hourglass-
shaped crossbands of darker brown are very narrow along the middle of the
back and are sometimes broken, forming two separate triangular markings,
one on each side of the body. As on the northern copperhead, the bands are
rounded at their bases. The belly is pale and indistinctly marked.

Size—Adults average between 20 and 30 inches long, while some especially

large examples reach a length of more than 40 inches.

Young—The average number in a brood is five or six. As with all North

American pit vipers, the young do not hatch from eggs but are born alive,
enclosed in a thin membranous sack. They are paler than adults, with a more
vivid pattern, and a bright sulphur yellow tail tip.

Distribution in Texas—The southern copperhead is known in about the

eastern third of the state, where it has been found in the following counties:
Austin, Bastrop, Bowie, Brazoria, Brazos, Burleson, Calhoun, Chambers,
Cherokee, Colorado, Fort Bend, Gonzales, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Harrison,
Henderson, Hopkins, Houston, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison,
Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Robertson,
San Jacinto, Smith, Tarrant, Trinity, Victoria, and Walker.
NORTHERN COPPERHEAD
Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen
Description—This darker form has a pattern of reddish-brown or chestnut
colored crossbands, which become narrower near the middle of the back and
rounded at the bases. The darker color of these “dumbbell” shaped bands
contrasts with the hazel-brown body color. The underside of the snake is
dark and indistinctly mottled with gray or black. Its head is usually of a
lighter tint than the body.

Size—Adults usually are about two and a half feet long but record size
individuals of more than 40 inches have been caught.

Young—Newborn northern copperheads, from three to 14 in a brood, may

be from eight to 10 inches long.

Distribution—Records of this snake are rather widely scattered over the

northeastern part of the state. Specimens have been collected in the
following counties: Bastrop, Bowie, Burleson, Cass, Collin, Colorado,
Coryell, Dallas, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Guadalupe, Hopkins, Hunt,
Kaufman, Lamar, Lee, McLennan, Milam, Morris, Robertson, Smith,
Somervell, and Titus.
BROADBANDED COPPERHEAD
Agkistrodon contortrix laticinctus
Description—The very broad, straight edged crossbands of this snake easily
distinguish it from other copperheads. The similar Trans-Pecos copperhead
differs by the presence of a light colored inverted U at the base of each
crossband. The dark brown bands of this form are slightly narrower at the
middle of the back than on the sides; their nearly straight edges gives the
bands a squarish appearance. The dark crossbands contrast strongly with the
lighter body color, while the belly is of almost the same shade as the bands.
The tail is tipped with yellowish green, more pronounced in the young.

Size—Snakes of this subspecies probably reach a length of three feet but

most adults are about two feet long.

Young—Litters probably average five or six but little else is known about
the breeding habits of this form.

Distribution—Widely scattered records include the following counties:

Atascosa, Bandera, Bastrop, Bexar, Bosque, Burnet, Callahan, Comal,
Cooke, Crockett, Denton, Dimmit, Eastland, Fayette, Frio, Gillespie,
Gonzales, Grayson, Guadalupe, Hamilton, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Mason,
Medina, McLennan, Parker, Palo Pinto, Real, San Saba, Tarrant, Taylor,
Throckmorton, Tom Green, Travis, Uvalde, Victoria, Wilson, Wise, and
Young.

TRANS-PECOS COPPERHEAD
Agkistrodon contortrix pictigaster
Description—This species resembles the broadbanded copperhead by its
straight edged, squarish crossbands but differs from all other copperheads by
having uniformly dark or strongly mottled belly. It also differs from the
broadbanded form by the presence of a light colored inverted U at the base
of each crossband. The pattern consists of about 13 chestnut-brown
crossbands with narrow, dark borders. The color between the bands is light
hazel brown, flecked with darker brown.

Size—This is the smallest of the copperheads, probably not reaching a

length of two and one-half feet.

Young—Nothing is known of the breeding habits of this rare snake.

Distribution—This form apparently is restricted to the mountains of West

Texas, where it is known in Brewster, Jeff Davis, Presidio and Terrell
Counties. Until 1949 it was found sparingly throughout its range and less
than a dozen specimens had been found by experienced collectors. Recently,
however, students from The University of Texas obtained about 100 of these
snakes during a six weeks’ summer course in a small section of Terrell
County. This indicates that the Trans-Pecos copperhead is common, but in
restricted areas only. Such areas generally are in wooded canyons and live
oak groves where there is some leaf litter.
 THE COTTONMOUTH
Only one kind of cottonmouth is found in Texas. It is one of our heaviest and
largest poisonous snakes and may reach a length of more than five feet.
When viewed from above, the head appears triangular shaped and from the
side the head looks flat on top.

The eye pupils, as with all members of the pit viper sub-family, are elliptical.

WESTERN COTTONMOUTH
Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma
Description—This is the most variable poisonous snake in the state, both in
color and in the presence or absence of markings. Adults are much less
brilliantly marked than are the young or newborn snakes. Adults have a
background of dark brown and are marked by from 10 to 15 dark, wide
crossbands somewhat lighter in the center than at the edges. The bands,
which have irregular edges, become a little wider along the sides. However,
not all cottonmouths look like this. While some individuals have clearly
defined crossbands, others have none. There is also considerable variation in
color. Some cottonmouths are brown; some are olive brown or olive green;
and some are entirely black. The lower jaw, as well as the upper jaw below
the eye, is light in contrast to the dark color on top of the head. Young
cottonmouths are vividly marked on a background of reddish-brown,
highlighted by darker brown bands edged with white. They look much like
copperheads.

Size—In Texas, this heavy-bodied snake reaches a maximum length of about

four and a half or five feet, but the average is more nearly three feet.

Young—About eight are born in each litter. They are from six to eight inches
long at birth.
Distribution—The cottonmouth has been reported in the following counties:
Anderson, Aransas, Atascosa, Austin, Bandera, Bexar, Bowie, Brazos,
Brazoria, Burleson, Burnet, Cass, Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Collin,
Colorado, Comal, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Falls, Fannin, Fisher, Fort Bend,
Galveston, Goliad, Gonzales, Grayson, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Harrison,
Hays, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Kaufman, Kerr, Kimble,
Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Limestone, Marion, Mason, Matagorda, Maverick,
McLennan, Medina, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Nueces,
Orange, Parker, Polk, Red River, Refugio, Robertson, San Jacinto, San
Patricio, Shelby, Smith, Sterling, Tarrant, Tom Green, Travis, Uvalde, Val
Verde, Victoria, Walker, Wharton, Wilson, and Wise.

The cottonmouth is one of our largest poisonous snakes. It is particularly

abundant in the coastal marshes of southeastern Texas where it is found
along streams, ponds and lakes. Although ordinarily rather sluggish, it
immediately draws back its head and opens its mouth widely in a threatening
manner when annoyed, exposing the white tissue lining the inside of the
mouth. This characteristic pose is responsible for its popular name.
Moreover, like the copperhead, which also lacks rattles, it has the habit of
vibrating its tail when sufficiently annoyed. Thus, when it is among dry
leaves, or if the tail strikes a hard object, the resulting sound may be similar
to that made by a rattlesnake.

The name water moccasin, which is loosely applied to any and all water
snakes as well as to the cottonmouth, has resulted in a popular but misplaced
belief that all “water” snakes are poisonous. It should be pointed out here
that the cottonmouth, Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma, is our only
poisonous aquatic serpent. The several kinds of harmless water snakes,
which in some instances resemble it, are devoid of poison. They can, at
most, inflict a bite no more serious than the scratch of a cat and these
wounds require only the first aid recommended for minor cuts.

Harmless water snakes most frequently mistaken for the cottonmouth

include the large diamondbacked water snake of central and eastern Texas,
the blotched water snake found over most of the state, and the yellowbellied
and broadbanded water snakes of eastern Texas. Most of them are relatively
heavy bodied, possess somewhat diamond shaped heads and, although not
venomous, will bite viciously if stepped upon or handled.
 THE RATTLESNAKES
More than one-half of all the poisonous kinds of snakes known in Texas are
rattlesnakes, and records show that almost every county has at least one
variety. Texas rattlesnakes range in size from the very small, 18-inch western
pigmy rattlesnake, which rarely if ever causes death among humans, to the
seven-foot western diamondback rattlesnake, known to be one of the most
dangerous snakes in North America. All have comparatively stout bodies,
facial pits characteristic of the family, and rattles.

The rattle, which sets this snake apart, is a series of loosely interlocking
horny segments which, when vibrated, produce a sharp buzzing sound as the
segments strike against one another. A rattlesnake’s age cannot be
determined by the number of segments of its rattle because a new segment is
added with each shedding of the skin. Because a snake may shed several
times a year, the resulting number of segments added annually may be six or
more. On the other hand, the segments are frequently broken off as the rattle
becomes caught in underbrush, so that few rattlesnakes have a complete
rattle.

WESTERN MASSASAUGA
Sistrurus catenatus tergeminus
Description—The general body color is brown or gray. About 39 dark
brown, oval blotches extend along the middle of the back while two rows of
smaller blotches are found along each side. These blotches are narrowly
edged with a lighter color.

Size—Adults average two feet in length; larger specimens are sometimes as

long as three feet.

Young—The young resemble the adults but are lighter in color. Average
number in a litter is eight or nine and they measure eight or nine inches at
birth.

Distribution—Records of this snake are widely scattered throughout the

state, including the following counties: Andrews, Aransas, Armstrong, Bell,
Bosque, Brazos, Calhoun, Cameron, Chambers, Clay, Colorado, Crosby,
Dickens, El Paso, Gaines, Galveston, Hardeman, Haskell, Hemphill, Jim
Hogg, Johnson, King, Matagorda, McLennan, Midland, Nolan, Nueces,
Parker, Pecos, Roberts, Shackelford, Sutton, Tarrant, Throckmorton,
Victoria, Wheeler, Wilbarger, Winkler, Yoakum, and Young.
This small rattlesnake is uncommon in Texas, although years ago it was
plentiful in some parts of the state. J. K. Strecker in his Reptiles and
Amphibians of Texas, 1915, states:

Mr. Luttrell of Claude, Armstrong County, informed me that he has often

killed from 50 to 60 during one wheat season, but during the past four or
five years he has not seen more than half a dozen a year.

Wet places, usually near swamps or marshes, are its favorite habitat. One of
our most docile rattlesnakes, it is seldom inclined to use its rattle, even when
almost stepped upon.

WESTERN PIGMY RATTLESNAKE

Sistrurus miliarius streckeri
Description—The body color of this snake is from gray to grayish-brown. Its
back is marked with about 35 small, dark spots which are wider than long.
Another row of smaller spots is located along each side toward the belly.

Size—Specimens average 18 inches long and large examples may reach a

length of more than two feet.

Young—The normal brood contains from eight to 10 but some may have as
many as 18. Average length of the newborn is five or six inches.

Distribution—All county records of this snake, except one from Mitchell

County, are in the eastern part of the state. The Mitchell County record may
be an error. Records include the following counties: Anderson, Angelina,
Brazoria, Brazos, Chambers, Cooke, Dallas, Galveston, Hardin, Harris,
Harrison, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Lamar, Leon, Liberty,
Matagorda, McLennan, Mitchell, Montgomery, Newton, Orange, Red River,
Refugio, Robertson, San Jacinto, Smith, Somervell, Victoria, Walker,
Wharton, and Wise.
The western pigmy rattlesnake prefers to live in dry areas; reports of
professional collectors indicate that it is found in greatest number after
heavy rains and at night. While more aggressive than its close relative, the
massasauga, its small size makes it one of our least dangerous poisonous
snakes. Its rattle is small, often difficult to see, and cannot be heard at
distances greater than a few feet.
WESTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus atrox
Description—Although individuals of this species show a great deal of
variation in color, from a chalky white to a dull red, they can be identified
immediately by the alternate black and white rings of about equal width on
the tail. There is a pattern of brown diamond shaped markings along the
middle of the back, which stands out against the lighter body color. Each
diamond has a narrow light border.

Size—Adults are generally from three and a half to four and a half feet long.
Reliable reports indicate that this species grows to a length of over seven and
a half feet, and six-foot specimens are not rare.

Young—Broods average 10 or 12 but occasionally contain 20 or more. The

newborn diamondback is about a foot long and looks very much like the
adult.
Distribution—Known throughout most of the state except the extreme
eastern part, it may be expected in many more counties from which records
of its occurrence have not yet been received. It is definitely known in these
counties: Andrews, Aransas, Archer, Armstrong, Atascosa, Bandera,
Bastrop, Baylor, Bee, Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Borden, Bosque, Brazoria,
Brazos, Brewster, Briscoe, Brooks, Brown, Burnet, Caldwell, Calhoun,
Cameron, Clay, Coke, Comal, Comanche, Concho, Coryell, Cottle, Crockett,
Crosby, Culberson, Dallam, Dallas, Dawson, Deaf Smith, DeWitt, Dickens,
Dimmit, Donley, Duval, Eastland, Ector, Edwards, El Paso, Erath, Fisher,
Foard, Frio, Galveston, Garza, Gillespie, Goliad, Gonzales, Guadalupe,
Hardeman, Harris, Hartley, Hays, Hidalgo, Howard, Hudspeth, Hutchinson,
Irion, Jack, Jackson, Jeff Davis, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kendall,
Kenedy, Kent, Kerr, Kimble, King, Kinney, Kleberg, Knox, Lampasas, La
Salle, Lavaca, Limestone, Live Oak, Llano, Lubbock, Lynn, Martin, Mason,
Matagorda, Maverick, McCulloch, McLennan, McMullen, Medina,
Midland, Milam, Mills, Mitchell, Moore, Motley, Nolan, Nueces, Oldham,
Palo Pinto, Pecos, Porter, Presidio, Randall, Real, Reeves, Refugio, San
Patricio, Scurry, Shackelford, Somervell, Starr, Sterling, Stevens, Tarrant,
Taylor, Terrell, Throckmorton, Tom Green, Travis, Uvalde, Val Verde,
Victoria, Ward, Webb, Wells, Wilbarger, Willacy, Williamson, Wilson,
Winkler, Wise, Wichita, Young, Zapata, and Zavala.

This is the most dangerous and, at the same time, the most common
poisonous snake in the state. Therefore, it is one which all Texas
outdoorsmen should be able to recognize on sight. A summary of snake bite
cases in the United States over a 10-year period shows that more people died
from bites of this species than from bites of any other North American
snake. There are several reasons why this snake is responsible for so many
bites and such a high number of deaths. Chief among these is its large size. It
ranks as one of the two largest poisonous snakes in the country, being second
only to the eight-foot eastern diamondback rattlesnake of the southeastern
states. In direct proportion to its size, it has long fangs and poison glands
which hold a great amount of venom. These factors insure a long strike and
deep fang penetration. In addition, it has an unusually furious disposition
and, if threatened with danger or sufficiently annoyed, will vigorously
defend itself instead of seeking immediate escape.

Although strictly a land snake, the diamondback may sometimes be found

crossing streams or ponds and, occasionally, individuals will venture out into
lakes and bays.

TIMBER RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus horridus horridus
Description—This snake is much like the larger canebrake rattler but lacks
the dark stripe from the eye to the back of the mouth, and generally is
without the reddish-brown stripe down the middle of its back. Dark brown
chevron shaped crossbands contrast with the general body color of yellowish
tan. In some specimens black stippling occurs between the markings. Both
black and light color phases of this snake are found in some parts of its
range. It is unknown whether the dark specimens occur in Texas. The tail is
marked with three or four dark bands on the lighter specimens but is
altogether black on the darker ones.

Size—Throughout its range this snake has an average length of from three
and a half to four feet, but a specimen six feet long is on record.

Young—The number in a brood varies from three to 12. Length of the

newborn is eight or nine inches.

Distribution—The timber rattlesnake prefers rocky hills and mountains that

are not too heavily wooded, but it sometimes inhabits bogs and swamps at
lower elevations. In either situation, it seldom survives for long in areas
heavily populated by man. In common with most other rattlesnakes, it seeks
escape when approached by man and fights only when surprised or cornered.
Known in northeastern Texas, it is reported from Cooke, Denton, Eastland,
Grayson, Lamar, Red River, Taylor, and Wise Counties.

Like the prairie rattler, it often seeks the same denning areas year after year
and congregates in numbers to hibernate for the winter.

CANEBRAKE RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus horridus atricaudatus
Description—This is a large and heavily built snake with a brown or tan
back marked by a series of wide, dark, chevron shaped crossbands. It may be
distinguished from the similar timber rattlesnake by its larger size, its more
vivid markings, and the presence of a dark stripe from the eye to the angle of
its mouth. Generally, a narrow, reddish-brown stripe extends down the
middle of the back. Its tail, as in some other rattlesnakes, is entirely black.

Size—In Texas this snake reaches a length of about six feet, while in nearby
Louisiana exceptionally large specimens, some nearly seven feet long, have
been found. Length averages four and a half feet.

Young—About eight or ten are born in a brood.

Distribution—This species prefers wooded areas in wet bottomlands. It has

been found in the following counties: Austin, Bexar, Bosque, Bowie,
Brazoria, Brazos, Cass, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis,
Falls, Fayette, Freestone, Gonzales, Grayson, Hardin, Harris, Henderson,
Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Madison, McLennan, Navarro, Robertson, San
Jacinto, San Patricio, Taylor, Victoria, Waller, Williamson, and Wise.
BANDED ROCK RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus lepidus lepidus
Description—This snake is very similar to the mottled rock rattlesnake, with
which it might be confused, but from which it differs by having a more
mottled appearance between the crossbands and a dark stripe from the eye to
the angle of the mouth. It has a pattern of about 18 or 20 widely spaced dark
crossbands with irregular edges in contrast to its gray body color. Belly color
varies from cream to pink.

In the Chisos Mountains, where there is much reddish igneous rock, the
normal color of this snake is pinkish; the variety has been given the name of
“pink rattler” by people of that region. Specimens from the limestone ledges
along the Pecos Canyon at Howard Creek and Sheffield are very light in
color, resembling the limestone rock on which they are found.

Size—This is one of our smallest rattlesnakes, having an average length of

two feet. The rattle is rather large in proportion to the small size of the
snake.

Young—About four are born in a brood and they measure about seven and a
half inches at birth.
Distribution—This form is restricted to the mountainous areas of the western
and southwestern parts of the state; it has been found in the following
counties: Brewster, Culberson, Edwards, Jeff Davis, Maverick, Pecos,
Presidio, Real, Terrell, and Val Verde.

Because of its small size and distribution restricted to rocky places at high
elevations, the banded rock rattlesnake cannot be considered a serious
menace to man. Apparently there is no record of anyone ever having been
bitten by this snake. It has a quiet disposition and, if alarmed, will
immediately retreat within the masses of jumbled rock which are its home.

MOTTLED ROCK RATTLESNAKE

Crotalus lepidus klauberi
Description—This species and the banded rock rattlesnake look much alike.
Both are small and slender, and marked with a series of widely-spaced dark
crossbands along the length of the body and tail. The banded rock
rattlesnake, however, has about 20 or 22 dark brown or black crossbands,
which contrast strongly with its greenish-gray body color. It further differs
from the banded rock rattlesnake in lacking a dark stripe from the eye to the
angle of its mouth.

Size—Adults average two feet in length.

Young—A record of one brood is the only known published information

concerning the young of this snake. Carl F. Kauffeld of the Staten Island Zoo
mentioned a litter of four and wrote:

All were irritable from the first, promptly broke through the membranous
sacs in which they were enclosed and struck violently at any passing
object. All were marked and colored much like the adults except that the
delicate pink along the venter of the latter was not in evidence; and the
tails, which in the adults are salmon or terra cotta red (including the basal
 segment of the rattle) were brilliantly sulphur yellow for at least their
distal half....

The newborn snakes measured about eight inches in length.

Distribution—This subspecies is found in much the same type of country as

the banded rock rattlesnake, being partial to rock slides high in the
mountains. The two counties in the state in which it is known, El Paso and
Culberson, are both in extreme western Texas. In disposition it is said to be
quite timid; however, at times, it becomes irritable without much
provocation.

BLACKTAILED RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus molossus molossus
Description—There are about 32 dark rhomboid markings along the back.
These light edged blotches are centered with one or two irregular light areas,
while the outer edges form bars which extend down each side to the belly.
Body color varies from gray to olive green, while the blotches are dark
brown or black. The tail is uniformly black, as its name implies.

Size—The blacktailed rattlesnake is one of our largest poisonous snakes.

Texas specimens average three and a half feet but may grow somewhat
longer. One, nearly 50 inches long, was collected at Persimmon Gap in
Brewster County.

Young—About five young comprise the average brood.

Distribution—Records are available from the following counties: Bandera,

Bexar, Brewster, Burnet, Comal, Culberson, Edwards, El Paso, Hudspeth,
Jeff Davis, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Medina, Pecos, Presidio, Real, San Saba,
Terrell, Travis, Upton, and Val Verde.
Hilly areas with steep canyons are the preferred habitat of this snake. In the
Big Bend region of Texas, where apparently it is the most common
rattlesnake, specimens have been taken from as high as 7,400 feet elevation.
It shows an inclination to coil in bushes or on tree limbs near the ground,
although by far the majority of specimens encountered are found on rocky
ledges. Its disposition has been reported by some to be very irritable, while
others claim it is quiet and docile.

MOJAVE RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus
Description—This moderately slender snake is very similar in color and
markings to the western diamondback rattlesnake. Its body is olive green
with a pattern of darker diamond shaped markings down the middle of the
back. These blotches are well defined by a border of light scales. It differs
from the western diamondback in having narrower black tail rings and wider
white spaces between these rings. A narrow light line extends from the eye
to above the angle of the mouth.

Size—Average length is three feet, or shorter than the diamondback

rattlesnake. Because of its more slender form, it does not appear as large as a
western diamondback of equal length.

Young—The average litter contains eight, the young being similar to the
adults in color and marking.

Distribution—The Mojave rattlesnake is known in Brewster, Hudspeth and

Presidio Counties.
Unlike most other rattlers, this species is reported to be most active during
daylight hours. It is rather quiet by nature and does well in captivity.

PRAIRIE RATTLESNAKE
Crotalus viridis viridis
Description—Color of the back is greenish or grayish. A series of dark,
rounded blotches extends down the middle of the back. These markings,
with narrow white borders, become wider and shorter near the tail to form
bands. In front of the eye is a narrow light line which extends backward and
downward to the mouth.

Size—Rather slender in form, this snake reaches a maximum size of five and
a half feet. Average length is three feet.

Young—Broods average 12 but vary from four to 21.

Distribution—Texas records of this snake are widely scattered. Counties in

which it is know include: Andrews, Armstrong, Baylor, Brewster, Briscoe,
Callahan, Carson, Castro, Childress, Crane, Crosby, Dallam, Dawson, Deaf
Smith, Dickens, Ector, El Paso, Garza, Gray, Hansford, Hartley, Haskell,
Hemphill, Hockley, Hutchinson, Kent, Lamb, Lipscomb, Lubbock, Lynn,
Midland, Moore, Ochiltree, Oldham, Pecos, Potter, Presidio, Randall,
Reeves, Roberts, Sherman, Taylor, Tom Green, Ward, Wheeler, Wilbarger,
Winkler, and Yoakum.
When aroused, this snake becomes a vicious adversary but, like most snakes,
is satisfied to go its way if given half a chance.
 THE ELAPID SNAKES
The single representative of this family (Elapidae) in Texas is small, slender,
and brightly colored with rings of red, yellow and black. The head is small
and rounded and eye pupils are circular. Its venom-conducting fangs, in the
front of the upper jaw, are small and permanently erect; consequently, some
chewing is required before the snake can inject its poison with certainty. As
if to make up for its poor biting equipment, the coral snake possesses a
venom of high toxicity, a venom much more potent than that of the pit vipers
which are so well adapted for injecting their poison quickly and deeply.
Because this poison produces scarcely any severe local symptoms, the
danger from a bite may be overlooked and treatment delayed. Although pain
is present, the usual dramatic symptoms of snake poisoning, such as
extensive discoloration and great swelling at the site of bite, are scarcely
noticeable. This absence of conclusive symptoms may lead the victim to
believe he has been bitten by a harmless snake. In all coral snake bites,
prompt action is necessary.

TEXAS CORAL SNAKE

Micrurus fulvius tenere
 Left, coral snake; right, Mexican milk snake

Description—Generally less than two and a half feet long, this is our most
colorful venomous snake and, at the same time, the least dangerous in
appearance. Its small, narrow head, slender body and brightly colored
pattern can be dangerously misleading. Children, especially, are inclined to
pick it up because they are attracted by its colors and convinced that such
beauty must be harmless. The pattern consists of red, yellow and black rings
which encircle the body in the following order: a broad black ring, a much
narrower yellow ring, a broad red ring, a narrow yellow ring, a broad black
ring, and so on. Note that the red and yellow rings on the body touch one
another. The snout is black and a broad yellow ring crosses the back of the
head.

Identification of this snake would be simple were it not for the fact that
several harmless snakes resemble it in form and coloration. These mimics
are marked with yellow, red and black rings—but the arrangement is
consistently different from that of the coral snake. The red and yellow rings
of the coral snake touch one another, while in the harmless forms these
colors are separated by black rings. A simple rhyme adopted by Boy Scouts
to help them associate “danger” with the color combination found on the
coral snake is, “Red and yellow kill a fellow.” Remember this easy rhyme
and, when you find yourself involved with a colorful little snake with
adjacent red and yellow rings, be cautious.

The harmless kind most closely resembling the coral snake probably is the
Mexican milk snake, technically known as Lampropeltis doliata annulata
and found south of Kerrville. The head of this snake normally is black. Body
and tail are marked with a series of from 19 to 25 narrow yellow rings
bordered by slightly wider black rings. The red rings on the body are just as
wide as the combined yellow and two adjacent black rings. Another of these
mimics is the western milk snake (Lampropeltis doliata gentilis), a small
species usually less than two feet long, which is native to central and western
Texas. It has a pattern of from 25 to 40 yellow rings which are bordered by
black. The red rings are separated from the yellow by black rings. All rings
on this form are very narrow. In the southeastern part of the state is found
still another of these mimics—the Louisiana milk snake (Lampropeltis
doliata amaura). Rarely reaching a length of two feet, this form has a pattern
of narrow yellow rings which are bordered on each side by narrow black
rings. The much wider red rings are separated from the yellow by the black
rings. In the scarlet snake (Cemophora coccinea) of eastern and coastal
Texas, the pattern is a series of wide red blotches bordered by much
narrower black bands. The yellow bands, about half the width of the red
ones, are separated from them by the black bands. The belly is unmarked
white or yellow. Adults are about a foot and a half long but a 25-inch
specimen is on record.

Size—The coral snake is generally less than two and a half feet long with a
body diameter of about three-eights of an inch. The largest known specimen
is nearly 42 inches long and was collected on the mid-Texas coast.

Young—This is the only poisonous Texas snake which lays eggs. From two
to nine eggs constitute the egg complement of this form.

Distribution—This snake is known in the following counties: Angelina,

Aransas, Atascosa, Austin, Bandera, Bastrop, Bee, Bell, Bexar, Bosque,
Brazoria, Brazos, Brooks, Burleson, Burnet, Caldwell, Calhoun, Cameron,
Chambers, Colorado, Comal, Dallas, DeWitt, Duval, Ellis, Fort Bend,
Galveston, Goliad, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Harrison, Hays,
Henderson, Hidalgo, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Jim Hogg, Karnes,
Kendall, Kenedy, Kerr, Kleberg, Lavaca, Lee, Leon, Liberty, Live Oak,
Llano, Mason, Matagorda, McLennan, Milam, Montgomery, Morris,
Nacogdoches, Newton, Nueces, Orange, Palo Pinto, Panola, Polk, Real,
Refugio, Robertson, San Jacinto, San Patricio, Sutton, Tarrant, Terrell, Tom
Green, Travis, Victoria, Walker, Waller, Wharton, Willacy, Williamson, and
Wilson.

Unlike most other poisonous snakes, this species is a burrower, coming to

the surface after a warm rain to feed upon small lizards and snakes. Contrary
to even expert opinion, it is not primarily nocturnal, but becomes active
during daylight and evening hours. It is often found in or under decaying
logs or other trash, especially in damp regions; in the San Antonio area,
specimens frequently are found under flagstones near homes.
In spite of its inoffensive nature, the coral snake is no different from other
snakes in that it will bite if stepped upon or restrained. It does not
deliberately coil and strike with accuracy like the pit vipers. Instead, it
swings the forward part of the body from side to side until it can secure a
hold to bite and then begins a chewing motion to imbed its short fangs.

The notion that its mouth is too small to bite effectively has in some
instances resulted in careless disregard for its deadliness. It is true that the
head appears very short and the mouth not capable of opening widely.
Actually, the skull is rather elongated and the mouth can be opened to a
greater degree than might be expected. Even when it bites a relatively flat
surface, such as the back of the hand, the snake’s closing mouth will pinch
the skin, allowing the fangs to penetrate.
 VENOMS
Generally speaking, snake venoms are divided into two broad categories,
neurotoxic and hemorrhagic, depending on their destructive actions.
Neurotoxic poison is characteristic of cobras and coral snakes and produces
considerable pain but little or no swelling and discoloration at the bite. Death
from this type of poison is the result of respiratory failure and is preceded by
such symptoms as headache, muscular weakness, lethargy and facial
paralysis with accompanying difficulty in speech.

Hemorrhagic venom, on the other hand, affects primarily the blood cells and
vessels. Local reaction is evident soon after injection of the venom and
consists of pain, discoloration, and swelling at the site of the bite. All of
these symptoms gradually become more extensive. Weakness, nausea,
vomiting and—occasionally—diarrhea may follow in a few hours. In many
cases of snake bite, shock is present.

Although every snake’s venom contains both the neurotoxic and

hemorrhagic elements, the proportion of these components varies with each
kind of poisonous snake. For example, the venom of the coral snake is
primarily neurotoxic in action, but produces a small hemorrhagic effect as
well. On the other hand, water moccasin venom, although basically
hemorrhagic in action, has a greater amount of the neurotoxic element than
do the poisons of the copperheads or rattlesnakes. Furthermore, neurotoxic
effects are more evident following the bites of the Mojave and massasauga
rattlers than they are in poisonings by other Texas rattlesnakes.
 FIRST AID KIT

Equipment necessary for first aid treatment of snake bite includes a sharp
cutting instrument such as a razor blade or sharp knife for making incisions,
a constricting band to retard the flow of lymph, iodine or alcohol for
sterilizing the knife and bitten area, and a suction device for removing the
venom-contaminated lymph. This last item is especially important if you are
alone and cannot reach the wound to apply suction by mouth.

Snake bite kits containing the essential items can be purchased at most drug
or sporting goods stores at a cost of from two to five dollars, depending upon
the make. Anyone who spends much time outdoors should carry a snake bite
kit at all times, and he should know how to use it. A smaller kit can be more
easily carried and is less likely to be left at home or in the car.
 DIAGNOSING THE BITE
To make certain that a poisonous snake has caused the bite, first examine the
wound for teeth marks. In a perfect bite by a poisonous snake (excluding the
coral snake), the pattern will reveal two distinctly larger holes where the
fangs have entered the flesh. There also may be two rows of smaller teeth
marks between these punctures.

Furthermore, if the snake engages the lower jaw, two additional rows of
small teeth impressions will be seen below the first group.

Frequently the bite pattern is not a clear one. For example, if the snake pulls
to one side as it disengages the fangs after a strike, the result is a series of
scratch marks instead of punctures. There is also the possibility that the
snake will engage only a single fang; or, perhaps, during fang replacement,
two fangs are temporarily in position on one or both sides of the upper jaw.
Any of these conditions, as well as others, can contribute to an obscure bite
pattern.

The bite of a coral snake often is difficult to diagnose by examination of the

wound. Because this snake impels its fangs in a sort of chewing motion, the
pattern created by its bite may be two groups of closely spaced punctures
where the fangs have entered the flesh a number of different times.

A clearly defined harmless snake bite pattern consists of a series of

uniformly small punctures (four rows made by teeth in the upper jaw, two
rows by teeth in the lower), but always without the large fang holes. More
typically, a non-poisonous bite produces several rows of scratches.

Pit-viper poisoning is diagnosed primarily by the presence of local signs and

symptoms. The most important of these are:

1. Pain accompanies most poisonous snake bites. Generally intense and

burning in character, it becomes more severe with the passing of time.
This symptom alone is not conclusive because pain can be imagined
following a non-poisonous bite. Occasionally in a severe bite, the pain is
replaced by numbness and tingling.

2. Swelling at the bite area is present in every case of poisoning. It will

appear within five to 30 minutes. In a severe case, the swelling may
continue to spread for 24 hours. There will be no swelling from a bite by a
non-poisonous snake or by a poisonous snake that injected no venom.

3. Discoloration, reddish or bruise-like in appearance, begins around the

fang punctures within a half hour and becomes gradually more extensive.

Intense local pain is symptomatic of coral snake poisoning but, unlike a

case of pit-viper poisoning, swelling and discoloration are not
pronounced. Diagnosis of coral snake envenomation is difficult and must
be based primarily on systemic symptoms: headaches, weakness, lethargy
and facial paralysis.
 SEVERITY OF THE BITE
Even after the bite has been diagnosed as venomous, it is not immediately
possible to predict the course it will follow. The severity of each case of
snake poisoning is determined by the speed with which symptoms progress.
Although the bite of a large snake is generally more serious than one caused
by a small snake, the seriousness of a bite cannot be gauged by snake size
alone. Some variable factors that affect the severity of each case include:

1. Age, size and health of the victim.

2. His allergy complex and sensitivity to protein poisoning.
3. His emotional condition immediately after having been bitten.
4. Location of bite on the victim.
5. Amount of fang penetration and venom injection.
6. Number of times the victim was bitten.
7. Kind and size of snake that bit him.
8. Whether or not the snake recently had eaten.
9. Conditions of the snake’s fangs.
10. How soon treatment was administered.
 FIRST AID TREATMENT
It is important that every snake bite victim receive first aid treatment as soon
as possible. The patient must not exert himself by running, because
increased circulation brought on by such physical activity will speed up
absorption of the poison. For the same reason, the use of whiskey or other
stimulants should be avoided.

The victim’s state of mind is important; he must promptly be convinced that

his chances for recovery are good—and, indeed, they are. He should not be
terrified by the thought that every snake bite means certain death. Actually, a
survey of case histories shows that with prompt and proper treatment, only
about one or two per cent of all snake bites in this country are fatal.

There is a considerable difference of opinion about the correct first aid

treatment for poisonous snake bite. The Division of Medical Sciences of the
National Research Council, a section of the National Academy of Sciences,
recently made a study to determine the most effective method of such
treatment. It recommended immobilization of the bitten limb, application of
a constricting band, and prompt incision and suction.

Based on these recommendations, the following first aid treatment for

poisonous snake bite is suggested:

1. IMMOBILIZE THE AFFECTED ARM OR LEG whenever possible.

Where this is not practicable, keep movement of the bitten limb to a
minimum. Muscular activity helps increase the spread of venom.
Whenever feasible, transport the victim by litter to further medical aid.

2. APPLY A CONSTRICTING BAND from two to four inches above the

bite, between the wound and the heart. This will help to limit the spread of
venom until it can be removed by incision and suction or neutralized by
antivenin. A piece of rubber tubing or a strap tourniquet, included with
every snake bite kit, is best for this purpose. When these are not available,
items of clothing may be used. A shoe lace, neckerchief or a strip of
clothing torn from shirt or trousers will do. The poison, unless injected
directly into a major blood vessel or deeply into a muscle, is absorbed
slowly by the lymphatics below the skin. Therefore, do not restrict the
deeper blood circulation by applying the constricting band too tightly. It
should be loose enough for a finger to be slipped under it with little
difficulty. Remember that during first aid treatment the constricting band
must be loosened every 15 minutes for about two minutes. This precaution
may prevent gangrene. If the bite is on the hand or forearm, take off rings,
bracelets or other jewelry because subsequent swelling may make their
removal difficult.
3. MAKE INCISIONS after sterilizing the cutting instrument and the bite
area with iodine or alcohol. If no antiseptic is available, the blade of the
cutting instrument can be sterilized by holding it over a flame (a match
will do). Make one cut over each fang mark parallel with the long axis of
the bitten limb, not across it. Incisions should be one-quarter inch long
and one-eighth to one-quarter inch deep, but definitely no longer than the
diameter of the suction apparatus being used. This would allow air to
enter the suction bulb from the outside and the device would then be
unable to work. Incisions are of the utmost importance to first aid
treatment; without them little or no poison can be withdrawn from the
wound by suction. However, making even a small incision involves some
risk and this operation should be done with considerable care. Improper or
carelessly applied first aid may actually do more harm than good.
Although a physician may later decide to make additional incisions to
relieve the pressure of swelling, only the cuts over the fang marks are
recommended for first aid.
4. APPLY SUCTION to the cuts. This can best be done with one of the
suction devices manufactured for that purpose but, if none is available,
suction can be applied by mouth. There is little danger in oral suction
unless the lips or inside of the mouth have cuts or abrasions. Contrary to
popular opinion, a tooth cavity will not permit passage of venom into the
blood. Moreover, snake venom is destroyed by the stomach’s digestive
juices, so if some is accidentally swallowed, there is little need to worry if
you have a healthy system. Only during the first 30 minutes following the
bite can much venom be removed by incision and suction.
 5. GET TO MEDICAL AID as soon as possible—but keep in mind that
unnecessary physical exertion is harmful.

Antivenom may be administered soon after first aid has been started, but this
is best left to a doctor. The North American Antisnakebite Serum made by
Wyeth, Inc., of Philadelphia 3, Pennsylvania, is effective against pit viper
bites but is of less value in the treatment of coral snake poisoning. Because
coral snakes cause so few bites in the United States, no serum to neutralize
their venom is prepared in this country. In South America, where these
snakes are common and may reach a length of five feet, a serum to
neutralize the poison is being produced by the Instituto Butantan at Sao
Paulo, Brazil. It and other foreign snake bite serums often are available at
larger zoos where exotic poisonous species are exhibited.
 SUGGESTIONS TO PHYSICIANS
In most areas of Texas, snake bite is an uncommon medical emergency, and
one with which few doctors have had experience. For this reason, the
following recommendations by the National Research Council’s Division of
Medical Sciences are included for the benefit of the physician.

Statement on Hospital Care Following Bites by Venomous Snakes

December 14, 1960

Admission Procedures

The routine admission history and physical examination should provide and
record, if possible, the identity and length of the snake, the time of the bite,
and the details of all first aid measures employed, including the time lapse
for each and the mode of transportation to the hospital. The record should
state whether a tourniquet, incision and suction, or the ligature-cryotherapy
technique has or has not been used. Inquiry should be made concerning
previous bites, allergic manifestations in general, and whether or not the
patient had previously received horse serum. The admission examination
should provide information from which the severity of the envenomation can
be estimated as a guide to the need for the administration of antivenin and
other therapy. Sensitivity tests should be instituted promptly during
admission if not previously begun.

When the patient enters the hospital, blood should be drawn immediately for
typing, matching and coagulation studies.

Although envenomation by one of the snakes of North America may present

severe signs and symptoms, death is rare except in children or following
envenomation by a large snake. However, permanent damage of an involved
extremity is frequent following a bite by certain of the North American
venomous snakes; plastic or orthopedic surgical repair to restore function, or
amputation, are not unusual consequences. Early and continuing close
observation is needed to determine if certain therapeutic measures prevent or
promote undesirable results.

Laboratory Tests

No rigid set of rules regarding therapy can be justified; the responsible

physician must use his best judgment in his choice of tests to be performed
as a guide to procedures to be used.

Clinical studies could include items such as repeated hematologic tests,

hepatic and renal function studies, serial electrocardiograms,
electroencephalograms, and other studies to therapy, depending on the
composition of the venom involved and within the limits of personnel, time
and equipment available.

Therapeutic Procedures

A. Systemic

1. Immobilization. During transportation, admission procedures, and most

of the early hospitalization period, immobilization of the affected part and
absolute rest should be continued. A sedative or analgesic may be
administered to relieve restlessness and anxiety; ice bags may be applied
to alleviate severe pain. The extremity should be immobilized in the
position of function, and active and passive exercises to prevent
contracture started after the third day if consistent with the patient’s
condition.

2. Blood Transfusion. Postmortem examinations have at times revealed

extensive retroperitonial and intraperitonial hemorrhage, and hemorrhage
into the viscera, including the liver and kidney. Progressive decrease in
the total volume of circulating red blood cells has been attributed to the
development of a massive hemolytic anemia or internal hemorrhage.
Blood transfusions may be necessary and at times have been followed by
marked improvement. Studies of the several factors involved in blood
clotting may be useful as guides to treatment. The first and subsequent
specimens of urine should be especially examined for the presence of red
blood cells, hemoglobin, and protein.

3. Electrolyte Balance. Abnormality of fluid and electrolyte balance

should be detected and corrected on a continuing basis.

4. Antivenin. Polyvalent or specific antivenins prepared from venoms of

snakes in the same geographic area should be administered in therapeutic
quantity as recommended by the manufacturer only with full realization
that the hazard of immediate allergic reaction or delayed serum sickness
are factors to be evaluated in the decision to carry out this type of
treatment. During hospitalization, antivenin should be given
intravenously, provided that sensitivity tests indicate that the patient is not
allergic to the antiserum to be used. Desensitization, if necessary, should
precede the administration of antivenin by any route. The use of antivenin
in such cases should be carefully evaluated. Injection in normal muscles in
other extremities would be the second choice, since local injections into
the deposit site do not diffuse efficiently into the entire damaged area and
would increase the hazard of pressure ischemia leading to increased tissue
necrosis. Epinephrine should be available for immediate use when foreign
protein is being administered.

5. Corticosteroids. The use of corticosteroids should be restricted to the

prevention or treatment of late manifestations of allergy following
administration of antivenins.

6. Antibiotics. A broad-spectrum antibiotic should be administered

promptly in appropriate dosage if the reaction to envenomation is severe.
Since the nature of the injury markedly predisposes to infection, and
pathogenic bacteria are found in the wound, this use of antibiotics seems
justified. Laboratory sensitivity tests, if available, should control the
continuing choice of antibiotics to be used. A massive wound infection
with severe systemic reaction could be mistaken for severe envenomation.
Repeated blood and wound cultures would be of help in making the
distinction.
 7. Tetanus Prophylaxis. Tetanus toxoid should be administered upon
admission if it has not been given as a first aid measure.

8. Respiratory Paralysis. If respiratory paralysis develops following

envenomation by one of the Elapidae (this family includes the coral
snake), the use of tracheostomy and intermittent positive pressure artificial
respiration is indicated.

9. Renal Shutdown has been an occasional occurrence following massive

envenomation. An awareness of this possible complication can do much
toward the prevention and treatment of secondary effects arising after its
occurrence. Routine daily tests such as B.U.N., CO₂ combining power,
and serum potassium levels are indicated in severe cases.

B. Local Measures During Hospitalization

1. Tourniquet (Constricting band). A tourniquet applied following a bite

by a venomous North American snake should be removed if
envenomation seems mild or after a potent antivenin is given in
therapeutic quantity. The prolonged use of a tourniquet or of a constricting
band would increase local tissue damage due to the action of venom and
might delay the vascular transport of antivenin into envenomated areas.

2. Incision and Suction. Substantial amounts of venom can be removed

during the first half-hour from subcutaneous deposits by incision and
suction. On the other hand, if the casualty is admitted to the hospital one
hour or more following envenomation, an attempt to remove venom by
incision and suction at the site of the bite would be of little value.
However, if marked subcutaneous pitting edema develops, interstitial
pressure can be relieved by several longitudinal incisions extending into
the subcutaneous tissues. Suction and fasciotomy may be required at
times.

Parrish (1961), using a modification of Wood, Hoback and Green’s (1955)

clinical classification of pit viper venenations, has proposed the following
guide for determining the severity of a poisonous snake bite. This
classification is based upon present signs and symptoms and the clinical
course of the patient during the first 12 hours of hospitalization. It will be
useful as a guide in treatment.

Grade O (No venenation). Fang or tooth marks present, minimal pain, less
than one inch of surrounding edema and erythema, and no systemic
involvement.

Grade I (Minimal venenation). Fang or tooth marks present, moderate pain,

from one to five inches surrounding edema and erythema in the first 12
hours after bite, and no systemic involvement.

Grade II (Moderate venenation). Fang or tooth marks present, severe pain,

six to 12 inches of surrounding edema and erythema in the first 12
hours after bite, with systemic involvement—nausea, vomiting,
giddiness, shock or neurotoxic symptoms present.

Grade III (Severe venenation). Fang or tooth marks present, severe pain,
more than 12 inches of surrounding edema and erythema in the first 12
hours after bite, with systemic involvement (as in Grade II).
 BIBLIOGRAPHY
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 FILMS
A 16 mm. motion picture film in color, entitled, “Poisonous Snakes,” is
available from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Reagan State
Office Building, Austin, Texas. It deals with snake bite prevention,
poisonous snake identification and first aid treatment.
FIELD NOTES
 Transcriber’s Notes
Retained publication information from the printed edition: this eBook is
public-domain in the country of publication.
Corrected a few palpable typos.
Collated Table of Contents, and re-ordered entries, or added headings,
to coordinate with the actual contents.
In the text versions only, text in italics is delimited by _underscores_.
End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Poisonous Snakes of Texas and First
Aid Treatment of Their Bites, by John E. Werler

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