Before beginning any trek into the woods in Brevard, keep in mind that there are several venomous snakes in our area.
A document from the Brevard County Extension Service lists the following snakes as venomous in Brevard County. Additional information can be found by following the links to information provided by the Florida Museum of Natural History.
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Coral snake– this bright “red touches yellow, kills a fellow” snake has several mimics that have the same colors in different patterns. A shortage of coral snake venom could make a bite from this snake particularly dangerous. |
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Eastern diamondback rattlesnake -this 36-72 inch snake can strike up to 2/3 its body length but generally will only strike if provoked. Bites are sometimes fatal. |
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Dusky pygmy rattlesnake – because of its small size, The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake can often be overlooked by those walking quietly through the woods. Its bite, while usually not life threatening, can be painful and result in the loss of a digit. |
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Water moccasin (or cottonmouth) – Cottonmouth bites can be quite dangerous. The victim should seek immediate medical care from a physician or hospital experienced in treating snakebite. |
Like most snakes, these beautiful creatures play a beneficial role in our natural eco-systems by keeping rodents, insects and other small prey in check. However, their bites can prove to be dangerous to humans and pets.
So what should you do if you see one of these snakes while exploring the great outdoors? The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission: advises you to “Just stand back and observe it…. They’d much rather avoid encounters and usually will flee. There is no good reason to kill a snake except in the unlikely situation of a poisonous snake posing immediate danger to people or pets. Snakes usually bite people only if they are molested; it’s their only means of self-defense. Even a poisonous snake in the woods or crossing the road poses no threat and should be left alone. Also, most larger snakes travel in large areas, so one you see in your yard today may be far away tomorrow.”
However, if you or someone you are with is bitten by a snake, you should follow this advice of the CDC and seek immediate medical attention.
Sources: Brevard County Extension Center
Florida Museum of Natural History – Guide to Florida’s Venomous Snakes and How to Get Along with Snakes
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commision
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
