This is why you wear gaiters

[Paul]

Originally Posted by flhiker

I fear the Rattlesnake the most because their venom is so toxic. And does damage no matter how fast you get the anti venom.

Can't honestly say I "fear" them. Respect them yes, fear no. None of these snakes will attack without provocation. In fact, the majority of the people bitten by vipers are those who are either trying to handle the animal or trying to kill it.

For the sake of clarification, the venom of a diamondback is not significantly more toxic per say. Rather the issue is the large quantity of venom they are capable of administering in a bite.

And while you are absolutely correct that a bite will result in some damage -- so does a dog bite or that from any animal. The damage from a viper's venom need not be extensive and will be far less extensive if proper measures and treatment are taken. The best method for minimize one's risk of snakebite is to leave the snake alone. If you're out hiking, as you already pointed out, pay attention to your surroundings and watch where you step.

Very few people in the US die from snakebite. More people die in the US from bee & wasp stings each year than from snakebites. Won't even go into how many more people are killed or severely injured by horses or dogs -- or how many people die in car accidents and shootings (both accidental and otherwise).