You can buy a snake hook online or from select stores that carry snake handling or animal control accessories for around $30-40. [2] X Research source Another option is to use snake tongs, which have a retractable arm that clamps down over the snake’s body to prevent it from slithering free. The only downside of snake tongs is that the pressure exerted by the arm increases your chances of hurting the animal.
Durable materials like denim, leather, and canvas will do the best job of defending against an unexpected bite. [4] X Research source
Snake hooks are most effective for controlling large, slow snakes that are less likely to slip off of the hook. [6] X Research source Snake hooks are simple tools, but it can take a little while to get the hang of using one. Try practicing on rubber toy snakes or lengths of rope to prepare to deal with snakes of various sizes.
Remember to keep the hook controlling the head extended away from you at all times so the snake can’t get close enough to strike at you.
Snake handling gloves are your best option. Since these are designed specifically for interacting with venomous snakes, they provide superior flexibility and traction while being impenetrable to even the sharpest fangs. [9] X Research source
Never attempt to pick up a venomous snake head on or from the side. Many snakes have very acute vision, and can strike rapidly and without warning. [10] X Research source Snakes attack when they feel threatened, and excessive noise or wild, chaotic motions may agitate them.
Don’t try to grab the snake with a fist or any other hand position. By doing so, you’ll be sacrificing the sensitivity needed to feel and respond to the snake’s movements. Make sure you keep the knuckles of both fingers, as well as all other digits, away from the snake’s jaws at all times.
Try not to squeeze the snake too hard, or you could accidentally strangle it or break its neck. Never pick up a venomous snake with the intent of killing or maiming it. Not only does this harm the animal unnecessarily, it also puts you at serious risk of being bitten.
Tucking the tail section beneath your armpit or pressing it between your thighs can make it easier to restrain larger species like king cobras and black mambas.
Don’t try to hand off a venomous snake to another person. If you need to transfer possession, it’s safest to just set it down and pick it up again.
It’s important to give your hands a good washing even if you wore gloves to hold the snake, as it’s possible for contagions to spread from another part of your skin. You’ll also need to wash your hands before you pick up venomous pet or show snakes, especially if you’ve recently handled live prey. [15] X Research source
Whether or not a certain snake is venomous, you should leave plenty of space between you and it to avoid provoking an attack. Keep in mind that there are hundreds of different species of snakes. For most people, this diversity will make it impossible to identify one that’s venomous at a glance. [17] X Research source
If you have small children or pets with you, get them clear of the scene first. They’re more likely to behave in a way that will frighten the snake into lashing out. [19] X Research source Try not to position yourself between the snake and any nearby brush, rocks, fallen logs, or root holes where it may try to flee.
If you happen to step directly on a snake or wander a little too close, don’t panic. Just take a few steps back in a calm, unhurried manner and put as much distance as you can between you and the snake. Don’t attempt to follow the snake or do anything to interfere with its exit. If you do, you could be putting yourself right back in harm’s way.
If you’re somewhere with no internet or cell service, yell loudly for help to anyone who might be in earshot. Under no circumstances should you cut, puncture, or apply ice, pressure, or electricity to the bite area. The idea that you can save a snake bite victim’s life by sucking out the venom is also a myth. Contrary to popular belief, these actions will just make the injury worse. [23] X Research source
