Oklahoma has twice the national average of snake bites. Which are the most venomous?

Oklahoma has twice the national average of snakebites annually, putting the state at fourth in the nation.

Though the state is home to over 44 different kinds of snakes, which are most active from April to October, there are seven venomous snakes to be careful of in Oklahoma, according to Oklahoma State University.

There are others, but their fangs are too small and venom too weak to hurt humans. While it's still good to be vigilant about where you step, most snakes are generally docile, according to Oklahoma State University.

Types of venomous snakes in Oklahoma

• Cottonmouths, also called water moccasin
• Timber rattlesnakes (Velvet Tails)
• Western pygmy rattlesnake
• Western Massasauga
• Prairie rattlesnakes

How do I identify a copperhead or cottonmouth snake?

These venomous snakes can be identified by their specific patterning. Elmore described the copperhead as "a medium size snake, usually between 1-3 feet in length, with light and dark tan or chestnut-colored, hourglass-shaped bands that wrap all the way around the body." Cottonmouths can be more difficult to identify because of the wide variance in their color patterning.

Out of every water snake found in Oklahoma, the cottonmouth is the only venomous kind, according to Dwayne Elmore, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension wildlife specialist.

According to Integris Health, "Typically, venomous snakes have heads that are diamond or triangular in shape." They also have small pits on each side of the head, and if the snake's pupils are vertical slits, that brings the risk factor up even more.

Can you hunt snakes in Oklahoma?

It's safest never to touch a snake you see in the wild. However, according to the Oklahoma Dept of Wildlife website, but you can still hunt them.

Rattlesnake season is open from March 1 – June 30 and there is no daily limit. If you do not have an Oklahoma hunting license, you can purchase a 5-day rattlesnake permit.

Other snakes that can be hunted with no daily limit are prairie rattlesnakes, timber rattlesnakes, and massasauga.

How do I avoid snake bites?

Oklahoma Poison Control shared these tips to avoid snake bites:

• Don't reach where you can't see. Noodling is for catfish.
• Wear sturdy boots or shoes. Skip the flip-flops in the garden.
• Use a flashlight when outside at night. You may know the area, but the snakes do too.
• Check the ground before sitting under a tree. Some snakes like to find homes in the base of a tree, especially in the nooks and crannies of gnarled roots and stacked rocks.
• Double-check play areas and sandboxes, especially after heavy rain, when reptiles may be looking for a dry place to stay.
• To be most safe, do not try to pick snakes up or kill them. Even when separated from its body, a detached snake head can still bite.

What do I do if I've been bitten by a snake?

Oklahoma Center for Poison & Drug Information also shares these tips on what to do if bitten by a snake.

Do:

• Remain calm and still.
• Use soap and warm water to wash the bite.
• Take off any jewelry or tight clothing in case of swelling.
• Keep the bite still and at heart level.
• Call the Oklahoma Center for Poison & Drug Information at 800-222-1222.
• In case of chest pain, difficulty breathing, face swelling or the loss of consciousness after a snakebite, call 911 immediately.

Do NOT:

• Do not slash the snakebite open or try to drain the venom.
• Do not try to suck the venom out, whether by mouth or suction device.
• Do not apply ice. Ice may cause even more damage to the tissue.
• Do not apply any tourniquets or tight bandages. It is better for the venom to flow freely than to stay in the affected area.
• Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake.
• Do not give the bitten person any alcohol, caffeine, or sedatives.