Myths vs facts

Myth: Snakes are slimy.

Fact: Snake skin is dry and smooth, made of keratin scales.

Myth: Snakes unhinge their jaws.

Fact: Their jaws are joined by stretchy ligaments, letting them open wide without dislocating.

Myth: You can tell a venomous snake by its head shape or pupils.

Fact: Many exceptions exist; for example cobras and mambas have round pupils and slender heads. Treat unknown snakes with caution.

Myth: Baby snakes are more dangerous because they can't control venom.

Fact: Evidence doesn't support this; adults usually deliver far more venom.

Myth: Snakes chase people.

Fact: Snakes avoid humans. Apparent 'chasing' is usually a snake fleeing toward cover that happens to be behind you.

Myth: Sucking out venom or using a tourniquet helps.

Fact: These are harmful. Keep calm, keep still, and get to medical care quickly.

Myth: Snakes are deaf.

Fact: They lack outer ears but detect vibrations and some low-frequency sounds.

Myth: A snake's age equals its rattle count.

Fact: Rattlesnakes add a segment each shed, which can happen several times a year, and segments break off.

Myth: All snakes lay eggs.

Fact: Many, including boas, most vipers and garter snakes, give birth to live young.