Lack of rain brings out snakes

By Staff
Rebecca Walker, Franklin County Times
According to the National Weather Service, Franklin County is lacking between two and four inches of the monthly average of precipitation.
While this presents problems for farmers and others who may rely on rain, there is another species being affected as well.
When rainfall is deficient, snakes are on the move in search of water.
Russellville's John Davidson, who holds a master's degree from Auburn University in vertebrate zoology and specialized in herpetology, which is the study of reptiles and amphibians.
According to Davidson, snakes are more likely to be closer to houses right now because of the lack of water, especially around flower beds and areas where water is found frequently.
"Usually, when the weather isn't so dry, you find snakes in the woods. Now, though, you will start finding them in yards in search of water," he said.
Davidson said that the most common snake found in this area is the Grey Rat Snake. He says that the snake is not dangerous, and is actually beneficial because it eats rodents.
However, there are some poisonous snakes in our area. Most common, according to Davidson, are Copperheads.
"Copperheads can be found under debris such as firewood piles, lumber and tin. They like to use those as shelter," he said.
Davidson suggested to keep such items out of lawns to prevent unexpected encounters with snakes.
Also, Davidson acknowledged that Rattlesnakes are not uncommon in this area. He recounted finding one on the Twin Pines golf course. He said that finding snakes on a golf course is common during dry parts of the year.
"There is no snake repellent; nothing you put in your yard is going to keep snakes out," he said. "You just have to keep debris out of the yard so that they don't use it as shelter."
According to Davidson, one should never touch a snake unless they are positive about what kind of snake it is and whether or not it is safe.
"Your best bet is to just leave it alone, or call someone who knows how to handle snakes," he said. "Sometimes, small poisonous snakes do not look dangerous, so you have to be sure."
If you are unlucky enough to be bitten by a snake, Davidson advised that you avoid all the home remedies and old wives tales and head straight to the hospital.
"People should know that this cutting yourself and sucking the poison out business doesn't work," Davidson said.