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With warm temperatures and recent rains, snakes are becoming more active across Central Texas—and that’s raising the risk of bites, especially for children playing outside.
Most bites happen between April and October, when snakes are out hunting and searching for shelter, according to Kyle Melton with the Texas Parks and Wildlife. He said keeping your yard tidy is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk.
“The best advice—just keep a manicured lawn, remove all debris, and then instruct your kids: Don’t go play on those areas because those do harbor snakes,” Melton said.
When hiking or working outdoors, he recommends staying on trails, watching where you step, and keeping your hands away from leaf piles or brush where snakes might be hiding.
“Be mindful where you place your hands, where you place your feet,” he said. “Be aware. Eyes open. Stay alert.”
If you do come across a snake, Melton said the best thing to do is leave it alone. Many species—including copperheads and rattlesnakes—play an important role in the ecosystem by helping control pests.
And if someone does get bit?
Melton said it’s important to stay calm, take a photo of the snake if it’s safe to do so, and seek medical attention immediately—preferably by having someone else drive you.
“Seek medical attention, and things will be in your favor," he said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that between 7,000 and 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the U.S. each year. Fewer than five of those cases are fatal.
Got a tip? Email Molly-Jo Tilton at Molly-jo_tilton@baylor.edu.
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