Snakes become sluggish anywhere below 60 degrees° Fahrenheit (16° C). A steady temperature drop is a signal for the snake to enter brumation. The snake will become active again once the temperature rises back to about 60 degrees° Fahrenheit (16° C).
Since fall is now upon us, we still need to be diligent and have a watchful eye out for them when outside enjoying the cooler weather, especially when raking leaves, gathering firewood or hiking. Copperhead bites are quite common when raking leaves because they camouflage so well. Their coloration of different shades of brown makes them harder to discern among leaf debris. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 7,000 to 8,000 snake bites yearly, mostly from these six species: the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, Western Pygmy Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth, Copperhead, and Coral snake. which has a neurotoxin in its venom. Hemotoxins destroy red blood cells, which also cause mechanical damage at the bite site, swelling, bruising, etc., whereas neurotoxins act on the nervous system, which is more lethal and destructive of nerve tissue. Treatment for snakebites has advanced over the years, as opposed to the old "cut and suck" snakebite kits where the victim would usually make an incision at the bite site and try to suck out any venom. Modern day emergency rooms have CroFab, a pharmaceutical-manufactured anti-venom that neutralizes the venom. They have other treatment options if you're injured by a "dry" bite where no venom was injected into the tissue, but leaves the tell-tale puncture wounds. Luckily the survival rate is extremely high these days thanks to anti-venom. It is extremely important to get to a medical facility as quickly as possible after you have been bitten! What should you do if you encounter a snake while hiking, raking leaves, or gathering firewood? Slowly back away from it. A snake only strikes in self-defense because you prod or step on them or have them cornered where they cannot crawl away and escape. Keep in mind that not all rattlesnakes will rattle a warning. They do have rattles that are audible when they coil up in a defensive posture, however, rattlesnakes don't always have time to get into that defensive posture, because they are stepped on or surprised. Therefore, many will strike without rattling. Snakes are generally farsighted and their inability to see close up is limited, which is why they strike when a threat is very close. There’s no need to be fearful of snakes and miss out on nice Fall weather, leaf peeping and yard chores — just be prepared by wearing protective snake gaiters or snake boots. Be alert and diligent when outside this time of year, and of course during warmer months, too.
The victim said there was no warning rattle. "I saw a snake head come up and strike me in my left calf. My natural reaction was to jump back, and I bent over and pulled up my pant leg to see if he actually penetrated my long pants. I saw two bite marks about two inches apart. As soon as I stood up, I could actually taste the poison in the back of my throat."
Slowly and methodically, Scott started walking up the mountain, which was a pretty steep climb. He had only gone about a quarter of a mile when he lost his balance. He started crawling. And then he was throwing up about every 15 minutes. Then he started to go in and out of consciousness. "My dog stayed with me the whole time. He never left my side. He would paw at me and lick me in the face to keep me awake." About two hours after being bit, he fired a shot from the pistol into the air to get attention. No one was around to hear it. Back at home, his wife had a gnawing feeling something was amiss when Scott didn’t show up as planned. She found her husband’s truck at the trailhead, and about an hour later a rescue attempt was underway. Coincidentally, at the same time, Scott said he had pretty much given in to the notion he wasn't going to make it out alive. So he made a goodbye video to his family with his phone. “I couldn't talk clearly because my throat was so swollen." As it started to get dark, the delirious Scott saw a black blur moving his way and feared it a bear was coming to finish the rattlesnake's job. Luckily, it was the rescue team. A helicopter couldn't be used because of the thick canopy. Scott was too far gone to be slowly carried out. So he was moved by motorcycle, strapped to a driver and held up by paramedics walking on either side. That took three hours. More than 11 hours after he first got bit, he made it to the hospital, but he had already gone into cardiac arrest. Doctors gave him less than a 5% chance to survive. His rescue was one miracle, and his second was the dozen antivenom treatments and other medical interventions that saved his life. He was in a coma for three days but pulled through. "It took me a total of about three months to fully recover enough to where I could actually walk and have the energy to get around,” he says. Scott later learned it was a timber rattlesnake that bit him and that it directly hit a vein, which made the venom spread more rapidly, but also spared him from tissue damage. What to do if a rattlesnake bites you If you are bitten, you need to seek medical attention as quickly as possible say the experts. If you can, call EMS to come get you. You'll know if you have a serious bite in just a couple of minutes; you can start to feel tingling in your face. According to the California Poison Control System, other symptoms could include:
But what if you can't make that SOS call?
What NOT to do if a rattlesnake bites you
How to avoid a snake bite Rattlesnakes are most active in spring and fall, but vigilance is important all year. Snakes really can venture out in winter on a sunny day. Always be careful where you put your hands and your feet, especially when working around woodpiles or clearing brush. Wear thick gloves. If you're reaching under your house, shine a light under there. first to make sure the coast is clear. In addition:
Even if you aren’t volunteering for a work project, you can still find a new place to hike, watch wildlife, take a fun road trip AND get FREE admission in honor of National Public Lands Day. Park properties also include monuments, lakeshores, seashores, and recreation areas. There are about 423 of these units in the National Park Service, so that's a lot of scenic places to enjoy the great outdoors—don't forget your hiking gaiters or snake gaiters! The fee waiver includes entrance fees, but you will still need to pay for reservations, camping, tours, concessions and fees collected by third parties.
National Public Lands Day is organized annually and led by the National Environmental Education Foundation, in partnership with the National Park Service and other federal agencies. If you would like to take part in a volunteer work project, join the hundreds of thousands of volunteers who roll up their sleeves and help restore and preserve public lands by restoring a historic structure, clearing debris from trails, planting trees and more. Certain in-park projects may provide a fee-free day coupon to be used on a future date. If your schedule is full this month, mark your calendar for Veterans Day — November 11, 2022. That’s the next time you can also enjoy FREE admission to all national park properties across the USA.  Did you know that Benjamin Franklin admired timber rattlesnakes? Yep, one of America's Founding Fathers thought that rattlesnakes embodied uniquely American diplomacy and toughness.
“She never wounds till she has generously given notice, even to her enemy, and cautioned him against the danger of stepping on her,” he wrote in a Pennsylvania newspaper in 1775. “Was I wrong, Sir, in thinking this a strong picture of the temper and conduct of America?” He also noted that, like all snakes, timber rattlers don’t have eyelids, which made them naturally watchful. “She may therefore be esteemed an emblem of vigilance,” Franklin wrote. Rattlesnakes later became symbols of America’s war for independence. Christopher Gadsden, a colonel from South Carolina, designed a personal flag to be flown on five ships belonging to the Continental Army. The bright yellow banner sported a coiled rattlesnake emblem and the caption “Don’t Tread on Me.” It remains popular today among those who advocate for smaller federal government. About 7,000 to 8,000 people are bitten each year by snakes, but thanks to effective antivenins, most do not prove fatal. Even so, bites are extremely painful, require immediate medical attention, and each vial of snake antivenin costs thousands of dollars! The average snake bite victim requires anywhere from a few vials to dozens of them — it depends on factors like the size of the patient, the potency of venom in the bite and how quickly the patient is treated. The more antivenin needed, the higher the cost— and insurance often doesn’t cover much of it. Don't take a chance! Durable, protective snake gaiters for your lower legs can be the best defense against rattlesnakes, copperheads, and other pit vipers.
“Usually lots of rain creates a lot of foliage,” said a wildlife enthusiast in New Mexico. That extra foliage, “brings out more rabbits, which multiply, and rodents and packrats, and that usually means you’ll see more rattlesnake activity — because of the food source.” Rain plays a big factor in drawing out rattlers, but warmer temperatures in the 80s and 90s help as well. “When it warms up, that brings them out, gets them in the sun and more active,” he said.
Rattlesnake season generally runs from April through October, according to the Poison and Drug Information Centers in most states. But the peak month is August, when high temperatures and heavy rainfall can beckon them from their dens. In addition, snakes are no different from people in one regard: They flee flooded areas. And when that happens, there is a chance snake activity would increase. Citing a 2020 Journal of Environmental and Public Health report: “The potential for human/pet/snake encounters likely increases with increased snake and human activity during the summer months. There is some evidence that increased incidence of snakebites following flooding events does occur.” A 20-year study conducted by researchers at the Stanford Health Care and the University of Colorado, found from 1997 to 2017, every 10 percent of increase in rainfall over the past 18 months led to an increase in snake bites by 4 percent in all California counties. An emergency medicine specialist who was one of the researchers for the study, said that the report shows there is “a really strong association — almost a predictor — of snake bites based on weather and the climate.” That does not mean a season of heavy rainfall will immediately lead to a season of heavy rattlesnake activity. That may be because the correlation of heavy rainfall to more rattlesnake activity may take a year or two to develop. But if it increases snake activity, it increases mating practices among them, which means a larger snake population, which could then go on to bite people. The report also noted encounters between humans and rattlesnakes, and thus the number of snakebite reports, dropped during extreme periods of drought, when less water and food are available. Snake bites are usually not deadly, but they can cause extreme pain, illness and loss of limbs. If a rattlesnake does bite you, don’t panic, say experts. They advise to call 911 if possible and/or get to the nearest medical center. If the bite occurred on the hand, remove any rings or finger jewelry. Things on the don’t-do list include: Do not apply a tourniquet to the bite area. Do not try to suck or cut out the venom. Do not try to capture the snake. If more rain than usual is expected in your area, accompanied by higher than average temperatures, that means the rattlers will likely stick around to soak up some sun and get three square meals a day. So just be more aware when in the woods or desert— or even in your own backyard and outbuildings if your property is in snake country. Also keep in mind that even when the snakes decide to hibernate, weather has an effect. The first cold snap is an indicator that snakes are heading back to wherever they can find a den. Snake bite prevention is key. The best way to avoid a snake bite is to wear snake boots or snake gaiters or snake leggings and be observant of your surroundings.
If you’re planning a hike, some basic protections can go a long way toward reducing exposure to all of these poisonous plants. First, stay on marked paths, which also helps with forest conservation. Long sleeves, pants, washable leg gaiters, and boots can protect against the sap and oils coming into contact with your skin. Upon returning home, you should wash yourself, your clothing, and any pets with soap and water. Oils can stay on clothing or pet hair and cause a reaction. Cleaning can remove plant oil before it causes a bad reaction or rash.
Most people don’t realize they have been exposed to a poisonous plant until a red rash appears on the impacted area a few days after a hike. At that point, antihistamines, lotions, or creams to relieve symptoms are the best course of treatment. Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or long-lasting (high temperature, difficulty breathing, skin blisters or rashes that don’t heal).
Recently, a victim in San Bernardino County, California was tidying up a wood pile in his back yard. He reached for a log and felt a sudden burning sensation in his arm. Not two weeks later, also in southern California, another man building a firewood pile on his property was bitten by a juvenile snake, later identified as a highly venomous Southern Pacific rattlesnake. Storing firewood to avoid snakes is really easy. For the most part, all you need to do is elevate the woodpile one or two feet off the ground so that the snake has limited access to the pile in the first place. You can do this using cinder block or a wooden rack (pallets are good and also allow for drainage). Without legs, snakes have more difficulty reaching higher surfaces. Also, you might consider placing a tarp over the pile. All firewood should be stored at least five feet or more away from the foundation of your home and away from trees. When working outdoors this spring, be sure to wear protective gloves and remember to also protect your lower legs from snake fangs with snake gaiters. A pair of gaiters is an an easy and inexpensive safety precaution when working in snake habitat.
veterans. In addition, every national park is part of the collective identity that defines who we are and where we came from as a nation. They are tactile reminders of the values, the ideals, and the freedoms that our veterans protect. If you’re looking for a new place to hike and/or an opportunity for a fun road trip before the snow flies this season, you can enjoy FREE admission to all of the USA’s national parks in honor of Veterans Day. Park properties also include monuments, lakeshores, seashores, and recreation areas. That's a lot of scenic places to enjoy the great outdoors, so don't forget your hiking gaiters! Out of the 423 units in the National Park Service, only 108 parks regularly charge an entrance fee, but if you want to visit a popular park for free that normally does charge, now is your chance. The fee waiver includes entrance fees, but not charges for reservations, camping, tours, concessions and fees collected by third parties. Once you arrive, make your first stop the park visitor center to pick up maps and guides and for the latest information on everything from road conditions and ranger programs to hiking trails and campgrounds. As you might expect, millions of people visit national parks each year, and especially in 2021 now that folks are traveling again following Covid-19 lockdowns and closures. If you’re looking for travel ideas (or want to avoid crowds), these are the top 10 most visited national parks as of 2020: 1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina 2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho 3. Zion National Park, Utah 4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 5. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming 6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 7. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio 8. Acadia National Park, Maine 9. Olympic National Park, Washington 10. Joshua Tree National Park, California America’s national parks have something for everyone— 84+ million acres of spectacular scenery, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures. Take a break and experience some place new, watch wildlife (but watch for snakes!), enjoy some fresh air, and get a little exercise. And, since admission is FREE to all 423 park properties on November 11, 2021, now is a great time to get up, get out, and explore while saving money. Please know that as of this writing, masks are required in all national park service buildings and on all forms of enclosed public transportation, regardless of location or vaccination status. Keep in mind that a Razer Neck Gaiter makes for a cool and useful face covering. Enjoy FREE admission to all of the USA’s National Parks
Because of the strong interest in getting away from it all, campground reservations have been hard to come by, especially at established sites in national parks and state parks. It’s much easier to find a remote spot in the middle of the woods if you’re completely self-sufficient, but not everyone wants to give up a restroom, water, and cell service. No matter what appeals most to you— bare-bones car cmping or for-pay campgrounds with amenities and services— autumn is a quieter time to enjoy the great outdoors. If you weren’t able to find a campsite this summer, the fall season could provide a respite with fewer crowds. Camping in the fall is great way to extend your outdoor adventures into the cooler months, while enjoying some gorgeous fall scenery. The key to camping when the weather might be less predictable, is having the right equipment and being prepared. • Always check the forecast ahead of time specific to the parks or campgrounds you plan to visit. Remember that warm weather can turn quickly. Depending on where you’re going, you should always be prepared for all kinds of weather. • Buy a good three-season tent. You’ll want one that has a full rain fly to keep moisture out. Always bring a tarp or tent footprint to place underneath your tent to protect from moisture seeping in. Also, consider bringing an extra tarp to set up over the top of your rainfly. • Bring a sleeping bag that protects against temperatures lower than you expect. There's nothing worse than freezing through the night. Mummy sleeping bags are best for keeping you warm because they cling closer to your body. Most of them come with a hood that surrounds your head to capture heat that would otherwise escape. A sleeping pad is critical to insulating your body from the cold earth. Get a good closed-cell pad and double it up with another foam pad if needed. In terms of heat retention, this is one of the most important things you can do to stay warm at night. • Layering is the key to staying comfortable while camping in fall. You’ll want to start with a base layer, such as wicking thermal underwear to keep moisture away from your skin. Then add a layer for warmth, and finally a breathable, windproof outer layer to keep heat from escaping. Wool, fleece and synthetic materials will help keep you warm and dry. Avoid cotton clothing. Always change out of wet clothing as quickly as possible. Bring extra clothing, footgear and mittens, so that you always have dry back-ups. You might also consider a pair of winter gaiters to keep the rain or snow out of your boots or off your lower legs. • Cooking times are longer in low temperatures, so leave more time for cooking. Along with longer cooking times, you’ll need more fuel than you would in summer. Easy-to-prepare or one-pot meals are ideal. So are hot beverages to sip on throughout the day. Keep yourself well hydrated and nourished as this will help your body stay strong against the elements. • Wildlife are often engaged in fall mating rituals, so be careful to respect their space. Some animals can be more aggressive as winter nears, so beware of bee hives and be sure to eliminate trash from your campsite to avoid attracting bears and other animals. As always, never leave food in your tent. Use a bear can, hang your food from a tree, or put it in the trunk of your car at night. Keep in mind that in some areas, rattlesnakes can be active well into November if the weather stays mild, so remember your snake gaiters. • If you visit a backcountry area, bring a GPS device, compass and/or map. And b sure to notify friends and park officials where you plan to go and when you plan to return. A little nervous about fall camping? Don't fret. With a little extra preparation, you can secure plenty more time to make memories well into the autumn season. Enjoy these fall camping tips
Out of the 423 units in the National Park Service, only 108 parks regularly charge an entrance fee (ranging from $5 to $35 per vehicle), but if you want to visit a popular park for free that normally does charge, now is your chance. The fee waiver includes entrance fees, but not charges for reservations, camping, tours, concessions and fees collected by third parties. Once you arrive, make your first stop the park visitor center to pick up maps and guides and for the latest information on everything from road conditions and ranger programs to hiking trails and campgrounds. If your summer plans are already committed, there will be two more opportunities to get free admission to national parks this year: September 25: National Public Lands Day National Public Lands Day is the nation's largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve America's public lands. NPLD began in 1994 with three federal agencies and 700 volunteers. Since then thousands have volunteered to lend a hand across the nation. November 11: Veterans Day Veterans Day was originally known as Armistice Day, marking the anniversary of the ending of World War I at the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, of the eleventh month in 1918. On June 1, 1954, the name of the holiday was changed to Veterans Day to honor those who died in all American wars. As you might expect, millions of people visit national parks each year, and especially in 2021 now that folks are traveling again following Covid-19 lockdowns and closures. If you’re looking for travel ideas (or want to avoid crowds), these are the top 10 most visited national parks as of 2020:
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