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Snakes are still relatively poorly understood animals despite the way we often live by their side. After all, generally shy creaturesRather hide that torment their human neighbors. But from time to time, we cross paths with them when we least expect it, whether it isIn your courtyard, by exploring nature, or even inYour own house. Fortunately, with the right preparation, you can avoid the worst type of running -in with a reptile. Read the rest to find out how you could invite snakes to bite yourself and what you should do differently.

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There is no better way to take in nature than to launch your boots and get out of the hike with friends. Of course, most outdoor enthusiasts have their favorite trails they like to attend who can go from flat and easy to hilly and complex. But if you are the kind of hiker who wants to forge their own path, you could put yourself at a higher risk of snake bite.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

"Snakes like to hide in large herbs, rocky areas or anywhere has a lot of space to hide," saidGeorgina Ushi Phillips, DVM, veterinary and writer advisor forThe reptile room. "Even when you try to soak up the sun, snakes are more likely to be found in an area far from the path than in the middle of the path. It means to get out of the path, as tempting as possible, is a great way for Increase your risk of snake bite. "

Sometimes it is too difficult to resist the temptation to wear as many light clothes as possible when you head outside, especially in hot weather. And they are not only t-shirts and shorts: many like to let their feet breathe with open shoes and sandals when they go to the beach or go to nature. Unfortunately, this can be a huge error if you head somewhere where reptiles are a factor.

"One of the most common ways that people invite snakes to bite them is to wear sandals in the territory of snakes," saidJennifer Mecham, a serpent and writer expert withBlog reptiles. "It may not seem to be a big problem, but it is a very stupid thing to do. Sandals offer very little protection against the fangs of a snake, and even if you manage to avoid being bitten, you Always risk exposure to snake venom. "

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It is not only wild snakes that can bite you: even domesticated animals can sometimes take a tour. This is why the experts say that you should remember a few things if someone hands you a snake.

"Although it is rare for a pet snake to bite, a hungry snake is definitely an exception. Never manage your snake when they are hungry or around meal time," warns Phillips.

And even the suspicion of food can become a problem. "Snakes are very instinctive, and if your hands feel food, while even the most sympathetic animal snake can be pushed to bite. This is why it is important to always keep your hands clean before managing one "Explains Phillips.

One of the most common accidental encounters that people can have with snakes generally involves keeping an eye on where you put your feet. Let's be honest, it can be difficult to distinguish a camouflaged animal hiding in leaves, rocks or high grass.

"Most snakes are not aggressive by nature and prefer to avoid confrontation," explains Mecham. "When you get on a snake, you put the animal in a defensive position. They will perform to protect themselves, and you will be the one who pays the price."

Fortunately, you can do a few things to avoid the trampling of a reptile without distrust. "First of all, be aware of your environment. If you are in an area where snakes are known to live, take additional care to watch where you walk," explains Mecham. "Second, wear long pants and boots when hiking or working in areas where they can be present. This will help protect your skin if you go up on a snake."

And if you are still in the unlucky position to walk on a snake, Mecham says that the best thing to do is stay calm. "Do not try to move away from the snake or kill it. These actions will only increase the probability of being bitten. Instead, slowly retreat from the snake and will allow you to withdraw. Then consult a doctor immediately" , suggests Mecham.

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These first days when time warms the idea to go outside practically irresistible. But as a cold blood animals, experts say that snakes have a very similar tendency to become more active as mercury increases.

"March to October are when snakes are generally the most active, but more precisely, it is temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit which are the most attractive for snakes," said Phillips. "Of course, these are usually the best moments for hiking, but you always reduce the risk of a snake bite by being very careful during these periods."

Whether you are afraid of them or not, snakes are a fascinating part of nature and may be forced to look. But although it may seem common sense, getting closer to a reptile on which you happened could be more risky than you think.

"It may be exciting to see a snake, and some people will be tempted to move more closely or even an image. But not only is a snake likely to see your encroachment as a threat, it is easy to underestimate until Where a snake can strike, "warns Phillips. "Although it can vary depending on the species, most snakes can strike about half of their own body length. Even with this basic rule, it can be very difficult to see how long a snake and of a snake and Precisely assess the typing beach, so it is better to keep your distance. This is obviously something you want to keep in mind on the path but also in your home. Whether doing garden work or exploring Your attic, it is important to remember that snakes are fast and have a striking range which is probably much longer than you expect. "

It can be even worse if you try to become aggressive yourself. "When you try to kill a snake, it will seem threatened and more likely to bite you because it is its only defense mechanism. Their bites are their last resort, and they will only use them," said Mecham.

And you might not just put your physical security in danger by attacking a reptile. "Trying to kill a snake is also a legal responsibility because they are protected by law in many states, whatever the circumstances. So not only do you put yourself in danger, but you also violate the law," said Mecham said. "The best thing to do when you see a snake is to leave it alone. Leave it, and it will end up moving away."

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Even if you are not an outdoor enthusiast, there is a good chance that you spend at least a little time in nature in your own courtyard. But just because you live that the risk of a snake meeting is less. And according to experts, there are several ways to make sure that your chances go even lower.

"Regarding your property, snakes are attracted to two things: the small prey they can eat and the right places to hide," explains Phillips. "By removing debris, size and other hiding places in your courtyard, you reduce the chances of attracting mice, rats and other prey of potential snakes and reduce the number of hiding places than snakes will want to call at home. "