Venemous Snakes

Ohio is home to dozens of varieties of snakes, only 3 of which are venomous. Seeing as non-venomous snakebites are generally only of a minimal concern (first aid guides recommend you treat them as you would any open wound, with some disenfectant and a band-aid) this brief guide will concentrate on how to handle the venomous variety.

The three venomous snakes in Ohio are the Northern Copperhead, the Timber Rattlesnake, and the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (commonly called the "Swamp Rattler"). Images are shown below - click on them to see full-size images of these venemous snakes.

By the way, it is VERY commonly thought that Ohio is home to the Water Moccasin (also called the Cottonmouth) - according to the US Army, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and leading nature authorities it is NOT found in Ohio. Regardless, I have been involved in numerous discussion with adults and youth who are certain that they've encountered one in Ohio. I attribute this to Ohio's lookalike snake which is non-venemous - the Northern Water Snake. The Northern Water Snake is a non-venemous snake that can be quite aggressive (and territorial) - although they are unable to poison you they will chase people if threatened and are very quick to strike, so stay clear. For pictures of the Water Moccasin and the Northern Water Snake click on their names in this sentence. Note that the saliva of the Northern Water Snake does contain an anti-coagulant, so if you're bitten by one the wound may continue bleeding for awhile.

Identifying Venomous Snakes in Ohio

Most guides tell you that venomous snakes in Ohio can be identified by the small sensory pit on their face, but amateurs rarely wish to get close enough to a snake to verify such a pit. I find it is simpler to identify them by their markings (shown above) or by the shape of their head and eyes. Ohio's venomous snakes have a flat, arrow-shaped head whereas non-venomous snakes tend to have a rounder, less pronounced head shape. The eyes of Ohio's venomous snakes are egg-shaped and have vertical, eliptical pupils like those of a cat, whereas the non-venomous eyes have round pupils like a human's eye.

Avoiding Snakebites

The simplest way to avoid venomous snakes is to simply be cautious and use common sense. Never attempt to handle, harass, or otherwise pester a snake. Avoid running on trails where there is little ground visibility. Try to walk around (rather than step over) logs and rocks that a snake could be hiding behind. In general, don't put your hands or feet where you can't see them. By simply being aware of your surroundings you greatly decrease the odds of a snakebite, venomous or otherwise.

Signs Of A Venomous Snakebite

There are several signs and symptoms of envenomation. They include fang marks, pain and possibly a metallic or rubbery taste in the mouth several minutes after a bite, with a tingling or numbness of the tongue. Other signs include significant swelling within 10 minutes of a bite. Nausea, weakness and temperature change may occur. Black and blue discoloration may appear within three to six hours.

If Bitten By A Venomous Snake...

Do's

1. Calm and reassure the victim, and keep the victim immobile.

2. Call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

3. You may apply a light constricting band above the bite area (be able to insert a finger under the band). Do not release the band unless it becomes too tight from swelling.

4. Move the victim to a medical facility without delay.

5. A tetanus shot may also be required.

Don'ts

1. Don't use ice, cold packs or sprays.

3. Don't incise and suction unless directed by a physician.

5. Don't use a tourniquet.

7. Don't give alcohol or any drugs.

9. Don't wait to see if symptoms develop. Immediately transport the victim to a medical facility.

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