Here's a more detailed explanation on how to use snake tongs safely:
1. Identifying the snake
Before attempting to remove a snake with tongs, it's important to first identify which species it is. Unless you're experienced, handling venomous snakes isn't recommended.
There are four main species of venomous snake in North America: the coral snake, rattlesnake, cottonmouth, and the copperhead. Each of these has its own identifiable characteristics, coloring, and markings. If you don't think you'd be able to identify one, it's worth learning how to do so. Remember, it could potentially be the difference between life or death. That said, very few venomous snake bites result in death in the US, but it'll cause some nasty side effects, ranging from nausea to even possibly temporary paralysis. As a rule of thumb, if it's venomous, simply leave it alone. If it really is best that it is removed and relocated, call the professionals.
2. A little preparation
Count reading this article as your first bit of preparation for handling the snake. It is important to have a plan of action. If things go wrong when you're handling it, you'll have very little time to think on your feet and panic is what you want to avoid the most. Here are other key considerations:
Do you know a venomous snake from a non-venomous one?
Have you got protective clothing, like gloves and gaiters?
Where will you put the snake? Hint: get a bucket with a screw-top lid
Where will you release the snake?
3. Choosing the right snake tongs
One of the best ways to use snake tongs is alongside a snake hook. The longer the tong and hook, the less control you'll have over it but you'll be further away from striking distance. Shorter and you'll be up close and personal, probably too close for comfort. We'd recommend opting for something in between, around 40 inches for both the snake tong and hook. That way, you'll still have enough control over it while remaining at a safe distance from the snake. Long tongs are useful if the snake is under a bush or building. You should choose a tong with a wide jaw grip because it puts less pressure on the snake and will cause it the least amount of pain. Remember what we said about a snake in pain being more deadly?
4.Controlling the snake's movement
Always try to grip the snake with the least amount of pressure possible. In doing so, you're reducing the risk of injury to the snake and also the risk of it striking you. You'll notice that the more pressure you put on it, the more it will begin to wriggle and try to get away. Take control of the snake by using the tongs to grab it just behind its head. Next, use your hook on the lower half of the snake's body to support it. Don't panic if you don't manage to grab it in the right place. Snakes are fast and can do a good job of wriggling out of a situation. Even if you accidentally grab it near the tail with the tongs, you can use the hook to control its head while you adjust the position of the tongs. Once you're sure that you have control of its head with the tongs, then you can lift it into your bucket and put the lid on.
5.Dealing with the snake
Now that you've got the snake safely in the bucket, you'll need to decide what to do with it. If it's a venomous snake, it's best to call a professional removal service. If it's a non-venomous snake and you're confident in
