Geo-Hazards: Snakes
As if you need another geo-hazard while geocaching. Of any type of animal that we encounter, snakes are the most common. Usually it is a harmless garter snake, catching some rays and trying to keep warm. There are days that I can relate. As I like to say, they’re just trying to make a living, just like you. Poisonous snakes are another story.
I am in no way advocating a mass attack on snakes. Rather, some common sense will help you avoid a dangerous encounter. There are four types, including 20 different species of poisonous snakes in the United States. Their names are familiar: cottonmouth, rattlesnake, coral snake, and copperhead. The first and best advice I can give you is this: know if there are documented evidence of poisonous snakes where you will be geocaching and the species.
Take Minnesota, for example. Perhaps you won’t think snake lived here. Yet, snakes definitely are in numbers, including the venomous timber rattlesnake. A look at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website indicates that state parks along the southeastern bluffs have rattlesnake populations. So noted.
You’re probably most likely to encounter snakes if you 1.) walk in their habitat, or 2.) walk on trails with flat, dark-colored surfaces during warm spring or fall days. Frequently, we encounter snakes when walking on trails flanked by marshes. As far as seasonal patterns, snakes require heat to digest their food. On cool days, they will seek out warm resting areas in sunny areas. Bear this in mind with your fall geocaching trips.
There is one caveat to this information. One of the more dangerous snakes to encounter is not poisonous at all. Water snakes are found in wetland areas, often near docks or shorelines. These snakes feed on small fish, amphibians, and small mammals, often in bacteria-contaminated conditions. A bite from this snake can lead to secondary infections. To make these encounters more threatening is the aggressive nature of water snakes. Make no mistake. This snake will strike, and it will bite. It is very common. Definitely take the time to learn how to identify this snake. Take caution in any aquatic habitat.
Safe geocaching means being aware of your surroundings, whether it be dogs, poison ivy, or snakes. Don’t sacrifice your safety in the thrill of the hunt. (Sorry, if the snake picture offended anyone.)
