When people think of the desert, they typically think of only the rattlesnake as being present there. In reality, there are a number of snakes that are capable of inflicting harm that live in the desert. They come in various shapes and sizes but all are capable of doing damage if not to an adult then at least to children.

The first type of snake is also the most commonly thought of. The western diamondback rattlesnake is the most famous type of rattlesnake but there are many others that exist. These are the most well known and have earned a lot of respect, with good reason. These snakes are extremely venomous and are also known for being easily annoyed. If one is seen, it is better to just leave it alone and go away.

Another venomous snake found in Arizona is the coral snake. These snakes have venom that is extremely potent; however, due to their small size, adults would have to sustain a prolonged encounter with many bites in order to be affected. The same is not true for children. Children playing outdoors are frequently attracted to the snake’s pretty colors. They then pick it up, which the snake doesn’t like, and get bitten. If a child is bitten by a coral snake, that child needs medical attention immediately. Coral snakes are between 12 inches and 20 inches in length and have alternating bands of red, yellow, and black. To remember which tri-colored snake is safe, just remember “if red touches yellow, it can harm a fellow; if red touches black, it’s okay for Jack.”

The Arizona Mountain Kingsnake is one of a variety of tri-colored snakes that is meant to resemble the coral snake. In this snake, the bands are the same color as the coral snake but the red and yellow portions are always separated by bands of black. Because these snakes are non-venomous, “if red touches black, it’s okay for Jack.” While memory devices are great, if a person can’t remember which is ok and which isn’t, the best safety lies in caution. Stay away from the snake and it can’t possibly hurt you.

The Common Kingsnake, a black and white snake without red or yellow bands, is another snake common to the desert, mountains, and shrublands. These snakes are active during the majority of the year. They are not venomous but rather kill their dinner through constriction. Their diet typically includes lizards, rodents, birds, and other snakes. They can kill venomous snakes because they are immune.

The gopher snake is one of the largest snakes in the Arizona range. They can reach a length of up to 8 feet. Gopher snakes are active in the cooler months during the day and in the warmer months at night. These guys get their name because of their tendency to eat rodents, which is a good thing. When they are not hunting, they will hide under rocks or in animal burrows.

The majority of the other snakes in the desert are harmless. If you don’t know if a snake is harmless or harmful, just stay away. For more information on caring for your desert pet, please visit http://www.phoenixveterinarianclinics.com.