About Poisonous Reptiles

Learning about poisonous reptiles is a great way to enjoy your camping and hiking experience. Although, poisonous reptiles can be scary, it is best to practice safety. You can lessen the dangers of poisonous reptiles by being informed about them. You can educate yourself on the identifications and the safety tips to help learn about poisonous reptiles.

There are some common reptiles that are poisonous; while some aren’t. Most reptiles try to avoid people, because they are scared of you. They are more scared of you, than you are scared of them. Educating yourself on poisonous reptiles is the best way for preventing unnecessary attacks. Learning how to identify poisonous snakes and lizards are essential when you are out in the wilderness. When in doubt; it is a good idea to treat all reptiles as potentially dangerous.

Snakes

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake is commonly found in South Carolina, North Carolina, Louisiana, Florida and Florida Keys. Normally, they are found in the woods, shrubs and the palmettos. The Characteristics are dark brown or black diamonds with yellow scales. Their length can reach up to 2.4 meters long. Its venom can cause tissue damage and it will cause pain.

American Copperhead

This snake has been seen in several states such as; Texas, Arkansas, Maryland, North Florida, Illinois, Ohio, Oklahoma, Kansas, New York, Alabama, Tennessee, and Massachusetts. This snake gets its name because its head is a copper color. The body of the snake is a light chestnut color with alternating darker red color. The length can reach up to 120 centimeters long. Typically, they are found in the mountains and wooded areas. This snake will not attack, unless stepped on. When the snake does attack, the bite can cause nerve damage.

Lizards

Gila Monster Lizard

This is colorful lizard that is black with pink scales. These lizards can reach up to 50 centimeter in length. This lizard is typically found in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, Northern Mexico and the southeastern California. These lizards are usually found hiding in bushes, but they come out at night to look for food. These are not aggressive, but they are prepared to defend against intruders. Their painful bite is not fatal, but they latch on tightly and will need to be pried off.  

Mexican Beaded Lizard

This lizard is a cousin of the Gila monster, but it has different characteristics. The color can range from totally black to pale yellow bands. They can reach up to 90 centimeters in length. These lizards have a short temper when they are threatened. Unlike; it cousin, it can potentially cause nerve damage. It is a dangerous poisonous lizard to humans. They can be found in Central America and Mexico. They can be found in the hills and in the desert areas.

Tips on Reducing the Risk of Poisonous Reptile Bites

• Avoid sleeping next to rocks, trees, bushes, and hollow logs.


• Don’t reach into dark places such as; bushes and rocks.


• Don’t walk in heavy brushes.


• Always scan the walking areas.


• Stay on the open trails.


• Don’t pickup up any lizards or snakes.