Do Garter Snakes Bite?
Garter snakes are among the most common and popular snakes in the world. They are found throughout North America, and are often the first snake many people encounter. They are generally small, non-venemous and docile, which makes them a great choice for people wanting to keep a pet snake. But one question that people often ask is, do garter snakes bite?
Are Garter Snakes Dangerous?
The short answer to this question is no, garter snakes are not dangerous. They are non-venomous, and so they do not have any toxins in their saliva or fangs. This means that their bite does not pose any threat to humans or other animals. They may try to bite if they feel threatened, but it usually does not hurt and there is no danger of infection or injury.
Do Garter Snakes Have Teeth?
Garter snakes do have teeth, but they are very small and not very sharp. They use their teeth primarily for gripping prey, not for biting. They also have a very powerful jaw, which allows them to easily crush and swallow their prey. While they may try to bite if they feel threatened, it is usually not painful and there is no danger of infection or injury.
How to Handle Garter Snakes
Although garter snakes are not dangerous, it is still important to handle them with care. They can be skittish and may strike out if they feel threatened. When handling a garter snake, it is best to use a towel or other soft cloth to keep your hands away from the snake's mouth. It is also important to be gentle and avoid squeezing the snake too tightly. The best way to handle a garter snake is to scoop it up gently with both hands, supporting its body from underneath.
What to Do if Bitten by a Garter Snake
If you are bitten by a garter snake, the best thing to do is to wash the wound with soap and water. Garter snakes do not have any toxins in their saliva, so the bite is not dangerous. But it is a good idea to clean the wound to prevent any potential infection. After washing the wound, the area should be covered with a bandage and the wound should be monitored for any signs of infection.
Garter Snake Bites are Rare
It is important to remember that garter snake bites are extremely rare. Garter snakes are docile and non-venomous, and they usually only bite out of fear or self-defense. So as long as you handle them gently and with respect, there is no need to worry about being bitten by a garter snake.
Conclusion
In conclusion, garter snakes are not dangerous and their bites are not dangerous either. They do have sharp teeth, but they use them primarily for gripping prey, not for biting. Therefore, you can rest assured that a garter snake bite is not something to worry about. So if you ever come across a garter snake, you can handle it with confidence knowing that it won't bite.