Take a moment to scout your surroundings, when the rains threaten to wet your lands, snakes come out. Snakes are interested in breeding one to another at this particular time. They will be more present and an imminent danger to those around them. They prefer to warm themselves in the shining of the sun. Will enter an open or door ajar, seeking heat. So, be sure to keep them thar doors closed. Snakes do not spend a plethora of time in the shade, unless it is under a hot rock. And predominantly, just wish to be left alone, (like myself).
However, this is not always ideal for pets or people, when they are in close proximity of your dwelling… As they can be hiding in some of the most unscrupulous of locations. Should you happen to reside in an area of severely venomous snakes (babies are more dangerous), take heed to my warning. It only takes one prick and they can strike, without so much as a sound, and then, you are gone!
I have encountered rattle snakes, that have not rattled, black snakes that were crossed up with another breed and ‘showed their ass’, snakes of lengths beyond 6 ft. and some, who even have spit blood, while emitting a vile stench at the presents of what they perceived as danger. Those snakes who were a danger to me and my ranch, have to be thought of in another light, and possibly discarded, in one fashion or another.
I have encountered snakes who have slithered their way up into the carriage of a vehicle, been hauled off thousands of miles and dropped out onto the doorstep of the driver’s home. One such incident, was of a Floridian who came to visit my ranch. I noticed the snake entering the back of the car, and stated as much. Three days later, the snake was to be left at the home of the unsuspecting driver. This can be some horrific sci-fi to those who are deathly fearful of snakes (or spiders).
I have shot, cleaned and even eaten rattle snake. Not bad, when it is slow cooked and drenched in BBQ sauce. However, when cleaning them, be sure to lop off their heads, wear gloves, and do not touch the fangs, as they will retain their medicine, even though, thought dead. And you can be poisoned and even die, by the mere prick of them!
I do not kill them for the sake of doing so - However, when I have the need to do so, I do my best to utilize the entire snake. I have tanned out hides, made guitar straps, belts, jewelry, wands, canes, walking sticks, and other interesting items, from these lengths of snake’s skin and bone. Generally, these wears become gifts to those who I deem worthy or in need of the medicine of the snake.
If you happen to be in the wilds, respect their home, do not kill them for the sake of doing so. Be kind and appreciative of nature, and do your best to escape them. Leave them where they live and hunt. Walk a different path and continue with caution, for there may be others who are lurking nearby. But, by all means, be safe without harm to self, or of these magnificent creatures!
Blessings ~