Handling Serpents Safely: A Comprehensive Guide to Picking Up Snakes
So, you’ve encountered a snake and need to handle it, or perhaps you’re a new snake owner eager to interact with your scaled companion. Picking up a snake might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and a calm approach, it can be a safe and even enjoyable experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering everything from identification and safety precautions to the actual handling techniques.
**Disclaimer: Wild snakes should only be handled by trained professionals. This guide primarily focuses on handling pet snakes accustomed to human interaction. If you encounter a wild snake, observe it from a safe distance and contact your local animal control or wildlife authorities.**
## I. Before You Pick Up Any Snake: Preparation is Key
Before you even think about reaching for a snake, several crucial steps must be taken. These preparations are vital for your safety and the well-being of the snake.
**1. Identification is Paramount:**
* **Know Your Snake (If it’s a Pet):** This might seem obvious, but understanding your snake’s species-specific temperament and behaviors is essential. Research its typical activity patterns, feeding habits, and any known tendencies toward aggression or defensiveness. Different species require different handling approaches.
* **Identify Wild Snakes (From a Distance):** If you encounter a snake in the wild, *do not* attempt to handle it unless you are a trained professional with the proper equipment and permits. Instead, focus on identifying it from a safe distance. Note its size, color patterns, and head shape. Knowing the venomous snakes in your area is crucial for your safety. Use reliable resources like field guides or online databases to aid in identification.
* **If Unsure, Assume Venomous:** When in doubt, always err on the side of caution. If you cannot definitively identify a snake, assume it is venomous and maintain a safe distance. Contact local wildlife authorities or a herpetologist for assistance.
**2. Assess the Snake’s Mood and Health:**
* **Observe Its Body Language:** A snake’s behavior can tell you a lot about its mood. Is it relaxed and coiled, or is it tense and striking-posed? Signs of stress or agitation include:
* **Defensive Posture:** Coiled tightly, head raised, and ready to strike.
* **Hissing:** A clear warning sign that the snake feels threatened.
* **Rapid Tongue Flicking:** Indicates heightened awareness and potential nervousness.
* **Musk Release:** Some snakes release a foul-smelling musk when frightened.
* **Erratic Movements:** Unusually fast or jerky movements can signal stress.
* **Check for Signs of Illness:** A healthy snake will have clear eyes, clean skin, and be responsive to its environment. Signs of illness to look for include:
* **Lethargy:** Unusually inactive or unresponsive.
* **Discharge from Eyes or Nose:** Can indicate a respiratory infection.
* **Difficulty Shedding:** Stuck shed can cause discomfort and skin problems.
* **Regurgitation:** Vomiting after feeding can be a sign of illness.
* **Weight Loss:** A noticeable decrease in body mass can indicate a health problem.
* **Abnormal Stool:** Changes in the consistency or color of the stool can be a sign of digestive issues.
If your snake exhibits any of these signs, consult a veterinarian specializing in reptiles before handling it.
**3. Ensure a Safe Environment:**
* **Quiet and Calm:** Snakes are sensitive to noise and sudden movements. Choose a quiet and calm environment to minimize stress.
* **Adequate Space:** Have enough space to handle the snake comfortably without feeling cramped.
* **Clean Hands:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling any snake. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria and protects both you and the snake.
* **No Strong Scents:** Avoid wearing strong perfumes, lotions, or scented soaps, as these can overwhelm the snake’s sensitive olfactory system.
* **Proper Lighting:** Ensure adequate lighting so you can clearly see the snake and avoid startling it.
**4. Gather Necessary Equipment (If Applicable):**
* **Snake Hook:** A snake hook is a valuable tool for gently lifting and guiding snakes, especially larger or more defensive individuals. It allows you to maintain a safe distance and avoid direct contact.
* **Gloves:** While not always necessary for docile pet snakes, gloves can provide an extra layer of protection, especially when handling unfamiliar or potentially defensive snakes. Leather gloves are a good choice.
* **Snake Bag:** A snake bag is a fabric bag used to safely transport snakes. It provides a dark and secure environment, minimizing stress during transportation.
## II. Step-by-Step Guide to Picking Up a Snake
Now that you’ve prepared yourself and the environment, you can proceed with picking up the snake. Remember to remain calm and confident throughout the process.
**1. Approach Slowly and Deliberately:**
* **Avoid Sudden Movements:** Startling a snake is the quickest way to trigger a defensive reaction. Approach the snake slowly and deliberately, avoiding any sudden movements or loud noises.
* **Let the Snake See You:** Allow the snake to see you approaching. This gives it time to recognize you and reduces the likelihood of it feeling threatened.
* **Speak Softly:** Talking in a soft and reassuring voice can help calm the snake.
**2. The Touch Test (For Pet Snakes):**
* **Gently Touch the Snake:** Before attempting to lift the snake, gently touch its body with your hand or a snake hook. This allows the snake to acknowledge your presence and prepares it for being handled.
* **Observe the Reaction:** Pay close attention to the snake’s reaction. If it remains calm and relaxed, you can proceed to the next step. If it becomes agitated or defensive, back away and try again later.
**3. Supporting the Snake’s Body:**
* **The Two-Handed Method (Recommended for Most Snakes):** This method provides the best support and control.
* **Support the Midsection:** Gently slide one hand under the snake’s midsection, providing support for the majority of its body weight.
* **Support the Head and Tail:** Use your other hand to support the snake’s head or tail, depending on its size and temperament. Avoid grabbing the head directly, as this can be stressful for the snake. Supporting the tail is often a good option, as it provides additional stability.
* **Maintain a Loose Grip:** Avoid squeezing the snake too tightly. A loose but secure grip is sufficient to prevent it from escaping.
* **The One-Handed Method (For Smaller, Docile Snakes):** This method is suitable for smaller, more docile snakes that are accustomed to being handled.
* **Support the Midsection:** Gently lift the snake by supporting its midsection with your hand.
* **Allow the Snake to Move Freely:** Allow the snake to move freely through your fingers, but maintain a secure grip to prevent it from falling.
**4. Lifting and Holding the Snake:**
* **Lift Slowly and Gently:** Once you have a secure grip, lift the snake slowly and gently. Avoid sudden jerking motions.
* **Keep the Snake Close to Your Body:** Holding the snake close to your body provides a sense of security and helps prevent it from feeling threatened.
* **Allow the Snake to Move:** Allow the snake to move and explore on your hands and arms. This helps it feel more comfortable and reduces the likelihood of it becoming stressed.
* **Support the Snake’s Weight:** Ensure that you are adequately supporting the snake’s weight to prevent it from feeling insecure or uncomfortable.
**5. Moving with the Snake:**
* **Walk Slowly and Deliberately:** When moving with the snake, walk slowly and deliberately, avoiding any sudden movements or changes in direction.
* **Maintain a Safe Distance from Others:** Be mindful of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from other people and objects to avoid accidentally bumping into them.
## III. Important Considerations for Handling Specific Types of Snakes
While the general principles of snake handling apply to most species, some specific considerations should be taken into account depending on the type of snake you are handling.
**1. Venomous Snakes:**
* **Never Handle Venomous Snakes Without Training:** Handling venomous snakes is extremely dangerous and should only be attempted by trained professionals with the proper equipment and antivenom readily available.
* **Use Extreme Caution:** Even with training, venomous snake handling requires extreme caution and meticulous attention to detail.
* **Maintain a Safe Distance:** Always maintain a safe distance from venomous snakes and avoid any unnecessary risks.
* **Be Aware of Venom Potency and Symptoms:** Familiarize yourself with the venom potency and potential symptoms of envenomation for the venomous snakes in your area.
* **Have a Plan in Case of a Bite:** Develop a detailed plan in case of a venomous snake bite, including knowing the location of the nearest medical facility with antivenom and how to administer first aid.
**2. Large Snakes (Boas, Pythons, etc.):**
* **Require Multiple Handlers:** Large snakes may require multiple handlers to provide adequate support and control.
* **Be Aware of Constriction:** Be aware of the potential for constriction and avoid allowing the snake to wrap around your neck or torso.
* **Communicate with Your Partner(s):** Clear communication between handlers is essential to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
**3. Small or Delicate Snakes (Garter Snakes, Ringneck Snakes, etc.):**
* **Handle with Extra Care:** Small or delicate snakes require extra care and gentle handling.
* **Avoid Squeezing:** Avoid squeezing them too tightly, as this can cause injury.
* **Support Their Entire Body:** Ensure that you are supporting their entire body to prevent them from feeling insecure or uncomfortable.
**4. Newly Acquired Snakes:**
* **Allow Time to Acclimate:** Allow newly acquired snakes time to acclimate to their new environment before attempting to handle them.
* **Start with Short Handling Sessions:** Start with short handling sessions and gradually increase the duration as the snake becomes more comfortable.
* **Be Patient and Understanding:** Be patient and understanding, as it may take some time for a new snake to become accustomed to being handled.
## IV. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Handling Snakes
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when handling snakes. Here are some common errors to avoid:
* **Handling After Feeding:** Avoid handling a snake for at least 24-48 hours after it has eaten. Handling can disrupt the digestive process and may cause the snake to regurgitate its meal.
* **Handling During Shedding:** Snakes are often more irritable and defensive when they are shedding. Avoid handling them during this time.
* **Grabbing the Snake by the Tail:** Grabbing a snake by the tail can cause injury and is generally considered disrespectful. Always support the snake’s body properly.
* **Squeezing the Snake Too Tightly:** Squeezing a snake too tightly can cause discomfort and injury. Maintain a loose but secure grip.
* **Handling a Stressed Snake:** If a snake is showing signs of stress or agitation, do not attempt to handle it. Allow it to calm down before trying again.
* **Ignoring Warning Signs:** Pay attention to the snake’s body language and heed any warning signs it may be giving you. If a snake hisses, strikes, or attempts to bite, back away and give it space.
## V. Releasing the Snake Safely
Just as important as picking up a snake is releasing it safely. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:
**1. Approach the Enclosure/Release Area Slowly:**
* **Avoid Startling the Snake:** Approach the enclosure or release area slowly and deliberately, avoiding any sudden movements or loud noises.
**2. Gently Lower the Snake:**
* **Support the Body:** Gently lower the snake into its enclosure or release area, supporting its body as you do so.
**3. Allow the Snake to Move Freely:**
* **Don’t Force It:** Allow the snake to move freely into its enclosure or release area. Do not force it or try to push it in.
**4. Observe the Snake’s Behavior:**
* **Ensure It’s Comfortable:** Observe the snake’s behavior to ensure that it is comfortable and secure in its environment.
**5. Wash Your Hands:**
* **Hygiene is Important:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after releasing the snake.
## VI. Conclusion: Respect and Responsibility
Handling snakes is a privilege that comes with a great deal of responsibility. By following these guidelines and practicing patience and respect, you can create a positive and safe experience for both you and the snake. Remember to always prioritize the snake’s well-being and seek professional guidance when needed. Safe handling is not just about technique; it’s about understanding and respecting these fascinating creatures.
**Disclaimer:** This guide provides general information and should not be considered a substitute for professional training or advice. Always consult with a qualified herpetologist or reptile veterinarian for specific guidance on handling snakes.