ORIGINAL: guntercb
Guys,
How bad are snakes out there? One of my co-workers got bit by a diamond back rattler. He was bit before Christmas and the doctor will not allow him back to work yet! So I am kind of scared by what a rattler can do to you. He was bit on the hand and lucky to still have his arm. He actually has kept his hand and all digits. So that is the good news.. It just scares the heck out of me.
Should I get some snake boots? Have you guys seen many rattlers yourselfs?
Chuck,
You should be able to ride easly about 7 mph so you should be able to scout some good distance on a bike. And like you said it will burn off some pounds.
Later,
Chris
First i want to post this link because it will help all of us that spend time enjoying the outdoors in FL.
http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/natsci/herpetology/fl-guide/onlineguide.htm
Next i want to say that wearing a good pair of boots either rubber like Chuck suggested or snake boots or gaithers is going to help alot with your comfort level while your out there, youll enjoy it more while not having to stress over watching the ground constantly.
I am in to Herps and go out hunting snakes all the time in my area. I am out there looking for them and they can be really hard to find, especsally the little pygmy as chuck suggested because you most likely will never hear the rattle. And probably never see it. If most folks knew how many snakes the have steped over or gone past while out there they probably would stay home.
I have had conversations on here with Chuck and Reb about this very same thing, and have decided to invest in a good pair of snake proof boots for when i get out to start hunting just for that extra piece of mind. Alltough i dont wear snake proof boots while hunting for snakes, I usally have a snake hook, and tong.
IMHO if it will help you enjoy being there having the extra piece of mind then the extra cost is well worth it.
I allso suggest to everyone to take a look at that link, maybe even pick up a feild guide for ID ing snakes in FL. Alot of those cottonmouths people see are actually banded water snakes, and harmless. As well as alot of the others snakes folks run into. Most snakes play an important role in rodent control, which allso play a large role in disease control.
Didnt mean to take the tread off topic just thought i would put something helpful in.