No, not even ducks liked that kind of weather.
Sunday’s torrential rainfall caused a lot of flooding that still can be felt, as we continue to have afternoon and evening storms.
And while the excess water causes lots of issues, there is one few take the time to think much about.
When creeks, ditches and shorelines are engulfed, their residents most often seek out higher or drier grounds. And they can act worse than that stalled out car you tried to drive through the intersection.
Snakes.
Lots of what they feed on also moves to higher grounds and snakes are quick on their tails.
Oh … and the frogs. What a chorus these things have been signing the past few nights. Yep, snakes love frogs.
Trouble is, when snakes relocate they often do so into areas more inhabited by people.
And three that be found in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina are the kind we need to think about the most.
Water moccasins, copperheads and timber rattlesnakes.
These three are venomous pit vipers – not poisonous – and thusly have a different effect on people.
When encountered or frightened – as they likely are in a new environment – they can become a little ticked off.
If your boat is on a trailer, there’s usually little to worry about since these dudes are almost always found on the ground or near water. Moccasins are the species the region is most known for and can often be found soaking up the shoreline sun or swimming in places like Back Bay. They are world’s only semiaquatic viper.
Around these parts, they’re more commonly referred to as cottonmouths. When surprised or in a defensive mode, they curl up in a striking pose and expose the seriously-white insides of their mouths.
Not to mention those serious fangs.
Copperheads are beautifully marked and prefer to hide. Encounters usually are a surprise and that’s how people usually get bitten.
And – get this – the number one group that gets bit by copperheads are men who try to mess with them.
Timber rattlesnakes are more likely to be encountered in drier conditions away from water and they use the rattles in their tail to alert people of their presence.
Cottonmouths and copperheads are the two species most often mistakenly identified by look-a-likes – so extra care is advised.
When bitten by a snake, try your best to get a picture of it on your phone to help doctors decide on treatment. And even though their three species often “dry bite,” it’s still seriously important to seek treatment.
Rattlesnake encounters should be reported to wildlife managers since their numbers have dwindled.
Herpetological and media groups have plenty of publications on what to look for and what to do.
And remember, our three venomous species are protected. Killing one – unless you are feared for the lives of your animals or yourself – is illegal.
One more thing.
A non-venomous bite also needs to be taken care of, as snakes tend to have some rather nasty stuff in their mouths.
The bottom line?
When encountered, just leave snakes alone.
They don’t want to be bothered by you any more than you want to be by them.To read more of my work, go to: leetolliveroutdoors.com
