Tips for Springtime Snake Enounters

As spring warms up in Young County, folks around Olney are spending more time outside — checking fences, working cattle, or just enjoying a little fresh air. It’s also the time of year when snakes start showing up more often.

According to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension release, that doesn’t have to be a cause for alarm — just a reminder to stay aware.

Snakes become more active in late winter and early spring as temperatures rise, coming out of a hibernation-like state called brumation. Experts say the best way to avoid a negative encounter is simple: pay attention to where you’re walking and what’s around you.

“If you spot one, the best thing to do is leave it alone and let it go its way,” researchers said Most snakes in Texas are nonvenomous, and even the venomous ones — like copperheads, cottonmouths and rattlesnakes — are not naturally aggressive. In most cases, a snake will try to get away rather than stand its ground.

A few practical habits can go a long way, especially in rural areas. Wearing boots or closed-toe shoes, especially at dusk or after dark, and carrying a flashlight can help prevent accidentally stepping too close. Around the house, keeping grass trimmed, clearing brush piles and controlling rodents can make your property less attractive to snakes.

Understanding where snakes tend to live also helps. Copperheads often blend into grass and leaf litter, while cottonmouths are more likely to be found near water sources like tanks, creeks and ponds.

Experts also caution against common myths — including the idea that snakes will chase people. In most cases, they’re simply trying to reach cover.

Even so, any bite should be taken seriously. While some venomous bites don’t inject venom, medical attention is always recommended.