SNAKES DO NOT CHASE PEOPLE

Snakes have been the focal point of folklore for centuries. The word "snake" itself often yields a strong emotional response ranging from awe and wonder to shock or fear. 

Watch your step in the woods

Rock piles are perfect habitat for snakes

These individual responses originate from the diverse values people associate with snakes. While some people find them fascinating, others are not very fond of snakes because they do not appear and behave like any other animals we know. Additionally, there are numerous deeply rooted tales and myths about the extraordinary powers and abilities of snakes. Regardless of the source of our response, misconceptions about snakes have made them among the most feared and misunderstood of all animals. Once we begin to learn more about snakes, our misconceptions usually fade with the facts and our fears give way to curiosity.

If you do encounter a snake in the woods, simply leave it alone, it'll get out of your way or you can walk around it. SNAKES DO NOT CHASE PEOPLE. Here are a few tips to avoid the possibility of being bitten when hiking in the woods"

1. Stay on the trail.
2. Watch where you place your hands and feet, and where you sit down.
3. Do not attempt to capture snakes.

Read more from the DGIF VIRGINIA OUTDOOR REPORT here.

REMEMBER, KILLING SNAKES IN VIRGINIA IS ILLEGAL

Want to learn more about the Virginia Master Naturalist Program? Click here.