Dangerous Poison Snakes Lurking in Tennessee

What Are Poison Snakes?

Poison snakes are any species of venomous snakes that can cause harm or death to humans and other animals. Venomous snakes have a specialized set of glands that produce a toxic venom that is injected into prey or potential predators through their fangs. Venomous snakes are found on every continent except Antarctica, and in every U.S. state – including Tennessee.

Common Poison Snakes in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to four species of venomous snakes – the copperhead, cottonmouth, timber rattlesnake, and pigmy rattlesnake. The copperhead is the most common species in the state, and is usually found in deciduous forests and wooded areas. The cottonmouth is found in swamps and wetlands, while the timber and pigmy rattlesnakes are found in rocky hills and wooded areas. All four species of venomous snakes in Tennessee are considered to be dangerous to humans and other animals, and should be avoided if possible.

Copperhead

The copperhead is the most common venomous snake in Tennessee, and is found in deciduous forests and wooded areas. It is a medium-sized snake with a brownish-orange color, with a distinctive copper-colored head. The copperhead is not aggressive and will usually try to flee if confronted, but will strike if cornered or threatened. Its venom is not usually fatal, but can cause severe pain and swelling at the site of the bite.

Cottonmouth

The cottonmouth is found in swamps and wetlands in Tennessee. It is a large, heavy-bodied snake with a black or dark brown coloration and a distinctive white mouth. The cottonmouth is an aggressive species and will strike if threatened. Its venom is more potent than the copperhead's, and can cause serious injury or death if not treated promptly.

Timber Rattlesnake

The timber rattlesnake is found in rocky hills and wooded areas in Tennessee. It is a large, heavy-bodied snake with a gray or brown coloration and a distinctive rattle at the end of its tail. The timber rattlesnake is an aggressive species and will strike if threatened. Its venom is highly toxic and can cause serious injury or death if not treated promptly.

Pigmy Rattlesnake

The pigmy rattlesnake is found in rocky hills and wooded areas in Tennessee. It is a small, slender-bodied snake with a gray or brown coloration and a distinctive rattle at the end of its tail. The pigmy rattlesnake is an aggressive species and will strike if threatened. Its venom is highly toxic and can cause serious injury or death if not treated promptly.

How to Avoid Poison Snakes in Tennessee

The best way to avoid being bitten by a venomous snake in Tennessee is to be aware of your surroundings when outdoors. Wear long pants and boots when hiking in areas where venomous snakes may be present, and avoid areas that look like potential habitats for snakes. Be careful when reaching into dark or hidden areas, as snakes may be hiding there. If you come across a venomous snake, back away slowly and give it plenty of space.

What to Do if You Are Bitten by a Poison Snake

If you are bitten by a venomous snake in Tennessee, seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake, as this may increase the risk of further injury. If possible, take a picture of the snake for identification purposes. Remain calm, and limit movement to reduce the spread of venom.

Conclusion

Tennessee is home to four species of venomous snakes – the copperhead, cottonmouth, timber rattlesnake, and pigmy rattlesnake. All of these species are potentially dangerous to humans and other animals, and should be avoided if possible. If you are bitten by a venomous snake, seek medical attention immediately. By being aware of your surroundings and taking the proper precautions, you can help keep yourself and others safe from these dangerous predators.