Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to a few common questions about venomous snakes, helping to clarify myths and provide practical knowledge.

Can a snake bite through hiking boots?

Thick leather or durable synthetic hiking boots that cover the ankle offer excellent protection and can prevent the fangs of most North American vipers from penetrating. A large, determined rattlesnake could potentially get a fang through softer materials or find an exposed area. Boots are a tool for risk reduction, not complete immunity. The best protection is always situational awareness: watching where you step and keeping a safe distance.

Are baby venomous snakes more dangerous than adults?

This is a persistent myth based on the idea that young snakes cannot control their venom injection. While it’s true they may be less controlled, an adult snake possesses vastly more venom and can deliver a much larger, more significant dose. An adult snake also has longer fangs capable of deeper penetration. The bottom line is that a bite from any venomous snake, regardless of its age or size, is a serious medical emergency and should be treated as such.

How far can a snake strike?

A widely cited rule of thumb is that a snake can strike from a distance of about one-third to one-half of its total body length. A six-foot snake, for example, could theoretically strike two to three feet. However, this is just an estimate. A snake can strike from any position, not just a neat coil, and its reach can be surprising. The safest policy is to never intentionally get within striking distance. If you can clearly see the snake, you are likely close enough for it to feel threatened, so back away and give it much more space than you think you need.