Canada is home to many beautiful and fascinating wildlife creatures, including snakes. While most of the snake species found in Canada are harmless, there are a few venomous ones that you should definitely be aware of. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about venomous snakes in Canada.
We’ll cover the types of venomous snakes found in Canada, how to identify them, dangers associated, and what steps you can take to protect yourself when encountering them. We have also included tips on how to help protect these snakes and what to do if bitten by one.
Introduction to Venomous Snakes in Canada
Exploring the natural habitats of Canada’s venomous snakes can be a thrilling experience for those brave enough to venture into their territory. However, encountering these creatures in the wild can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. It is essential to understand the three species of venomous snakes found in Canada: the Massasauga rattlesnake, the Prairie rattlesnake, and the Western or Pacific rattlesnake.
Each snake species has unique physical characteristics and habitats that are important to identify to avoid accidental encounters. In this guide, we will explore how to stay safe while exploring these beautiful but deadly creatures’ natural habitats.
Types of Venomous Snakes Found in Canada
Canada is home to several venomous snake species, including the Massasauga rattlesnake which is the only venomous species that is native to Ontario. The Northern Pacific Rattlesnake can be found in southern British Columbia, while the Prairie Rattlesnake can be spotted in prairies and grasslands in southern Saskatchewan and Alberta. Understanding the distribution of these venomous snakes is crucial for avoiding encounters with them while exploring their natural habitats.
1. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is the only venomous snake species found in Ontario, Canada. Despite its small size of 50-80 centimetres in length, a bite from this snake can cause significant pain, swelling and redness, nausea, and dizziness. It’s important to note that while this venomous species poses a threat to humans, it is still considered an endangered species and protected by law. If you come across an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake while exploring the wild habitats of Canada, it’s advisable to keep your distance and avoid disturbing them.
2. Prairie Rattlesnake
The Prairie Rattlesnake with its distinctive rattling tail and diamond-shaped head, this snake is commonly found in grasslands and rocky areas with a mild climate. Despite their small size, these snakes have potent venom that can cause serious health problems, including swelling, pain, and even death if left untreated. If you encounter a Prairie Rattlesnake, it’s important to stay calm, keep your distance, and seek medical attention immediately if bitten. Remember, the best way to protect yourself from these snakes is to stay vigilant and always be aware of your surroundings.
3. Northern Pacific Rattlesnake
The Northern Pacific Rattlesnake can be quite dangerous, and its venom can cause serious harm to humans, including tissue damage and organ failure. Despite this, the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake prefers to keep a low profile and generally avoids human contact whenever possible. If you do happen to come across one of these snakes, it’s important to keep a safe distance and seek medical attention immediately if bitten.
Identification of Venomous Snakes in Canada
Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics of venomous snakes in Canada are essential to identify. These include a triangular-shaped head and vertical pupils, as well as distinctive patterns on their skin. For example, the rattlesnake has a diamond-shaped pattern and the copperhead has an hourglass-shaped pattern.
However, it’s important to note that not all snakes with these physical characteristics are venomous, so it’s crucial to also consider their behaviour and habitat. It’s best to admire snakes from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them to reduce the risk of getting bitten.
Geographic distribution
The geographic distribution of venomous snakes in Canada is limited to specific regions, making it easier to avoid encounters and potential bites. The Massasauga rattlesnake can be found in Ontario, while the western rattlesnake is located in parts of British Columbia and Alberta. Both species tend to inhabit rocky areas with plenty of cover, such as crevices or rock piles.
When hiking or exploring these regions, it’s essential to know the geographic distribution of venomous snakes and to remain vigilant at all times. If you do come across a snake in the wild, it’s best to give it plenty of space and avoid disturbing it to reduce the risk of getting bitten.
Dangers of Venomous Snakes in Canada
The dangers of venomous snakes in Canada cannot be overstated. While encounters with these reptiles are rare, their bites can cause serious harm. Symptoms of a venomous snakebite can range from mild swelling and pain to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing and even death.
It’s critical to know how to identify venomous snakes and avoid them in their natural habitats. If you do come across a venomous snake, it’s best to keep your distance and call a professional for removal or relocation. By being prepared and aware, you can help protect yourself from the dangers posed by these deadly creatures.
Bites Symptoms
If you suspect that you have been bitten by a venomous snake in Canada, it is essential to identify the symptoms and seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and discolouration at the site of the bite. Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty breathing may also occur.
While anti-venom is available for certain types of venomous snakes found in Canada, it must be administered as soon as possible for maximum effectiveness. To avoid being bitten by a venomous snake, prevention is key – stay aware of your surroundings and avoid handling or disturbing snakes in their natural habitat.
Treatment for Snake Bites
If you are bitten by a venomous snake in Canada, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. The best treatment for a snake bite is anti-venom, which must be administered by a medical professional as soon as possible. It’s essential to avoid attempting to suck out the venom or use a tourniquet, as this can worsen the situation. Educating oneself on the signs and symptoms of a snake bite and taking necessary precautions when hiking or camping in areas where venomous snakes may be present is also important.
Measures to Take When Encountering Venomous Snakes in Canada
When encountering a venomous snake in Canada, it’s crucial to keep your composure and take the appropriate measures to avoid getting bitten. The first step is to stay calm and still – sudden movements can provoke the snake and increase your risk of being bitten.
Keep a safe distance of at least two metres and do not attempt to handle or catch the snake, no matter how harmless it may seem. If you notice any signs of aggression, such as coiling or hissing, you should retreat slowly and seek medical attention immediately if bitten.
How to Help Protect Venomous Snakes in Canada
If you encounter a venomous snake in Canada, it’s essential to stay calm and keep a safe distance. Rather than trying to handle or capture the snake yourself, contact a professional wildlife expert for removal. Killing or harming venomous snakes can have serious implications for the ecosystem, as they play an important role in controlling rodent populations.
By educating yourself and others on identifying venomous snakes and taking preventative measures when hiking or working in areas where they may be present, you can help promote responsible coexistence with these fascinating creatures. Remember to support conservation efforts for venomous snakes through research programs and habitat restoration initiatives to help sustain their populations for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the number of snake species in Canada?
Canada is home to a wide variety of snakes, with 27 different species found throughout the country. Apart from venomous snakes, Canada is home to several non-venomous species that play a significant role in the ecosystem. Some common non-venomous snakes found in Canada are garter snakes, water snakes, and brown snakes. These snakes are generally harmless to humans and do not pose any threat.
What is the best way to avoid being bitten by a snake?
The best way to avoid being bitten by a snake is to stay away from their habitat. However, if you must be in areas where snakes may be present, wearing protective clothing, such as boots and long pants, can help reduce the risk of being bitten.
Be cautious when stepping over rocks or logs, as snakes may be hiding underneath them. If you do encounter a snake, do not try to handle it or provoke it. Give the snake space and slowly back away to avoid any potential danger.
How do I know if my pet snake is venomous or not?
To determine if your pet snake is venomous or not, it is important to know its species. Venomous snakes typically have distinct physical characteristics such as triangular-shaped heads, heat-sensing pits, and elliptical pupils.
If you are unsure about the species of your pet snake, it is best to consult a veterinarian or a herpetologist for identification. Regardless of whether your snake is venomous or not, always handle it with caution and follow proper safety precautions to ensure both your safety and the snake’s well-being.
What are the main causes of fatalities caused by venomous snakes in Canada?
There are very few fatalities caused by venomous snakes in Canada, but the main cause of fatalities is a delay in seeking medical treatment after a snakebite. Other factors that can contribute to fatalities include allergic reactions and pre-existing health conditions.
How do people get over their fear of snakes when hiking?
There are several ways to overcome a fear of snakes while hiking. Exposure therapy is a commonly used method, which involves gradually increasing exposure to snakes through visits to local reptile exhibits or handling non-venomous snakes.
With time and practice, these strategies can help build confidence and allow hikers to enjoy the outdoors without fear of encountering a snake.
Which province in Canada has the most snakes?
Ontario has the highest number of snake species in Canada, however other provinces such as British Columbia, Quebec, and New Brunswick also have a significant number of snake species as well.
Conclusion
Venomous snakes can be dangerous and require immediate medical attention if bitten. It is important to know the types of venomous snakes in Canada, their characteristics, and what to do in case of a bite. However, it’s also important to remember that these snakes play an important role in the ecosystem and should not be killed unnecessarily. If you encounter a venomous snake, give it space and slowly move away. To learn more about how you can help protect these species and what to do if you encounter them, read our comprehensive guide on venomous snakes in Canada.
Hero Image Connor Long, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons