Reptile & Amphibian Forums

what do you all think would be the best way to define the striking distance of a snake? ive heard 1/3 of their body lenth, but that may not always hold true. i had a 3-4 foot mojave strike at me and "slide" across the asphalt mid-aid and almost nail me. i have to come up with a fairly concrete definition to pass on in a training class, thank you.

Excellent topic,

As you have already noted there are variables. Striking distance will vary with species and to a degree the individual animal. The surface the animal is on is also a factor. A flat surface may give the ability for the animal to use its forward momentum to increase its striking distance, such as the case with your Mohave. The less friction encountered the greater the striking distance. A surface with obstacles, such as larger rocks, will reduce the effects of such momentum. I have personally seen how a species can strike a bit farther in loose sand than in rocks. A snake may attempt to flee in the wrong direction and rapidly close the striking distance between itself and the threat. Some species, such as Cobras, tend to strike more in an arc and would thus benefit less from momentum. Of course those species that "spit" venom create a whole new set of rules for striking distance. A third of its body length is a very generic rule of thumb for many pit vipers. Another is the combined distance of the curves in its neck as it poises to strike. These rules of thumb are very minimal at best. Perhaps your lesson would best benefit by discussing such variables as well as the defensive behavior of the various snakes.
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Randy Hallman
Firehouse Herps

thank you for your input. i guess there are many variables that come into play. i think for the purpose of my training i may define it as the distance from the tip of a 40" pair of snake tongs to the shoulder of an out stretched arm holding the tongs. even if its an 8 inch atrox! better safe than sorry i guess.

I think you hit the nail on the head westtexas! Better safe than sorry, especially considering most bites happen when handling or attempting to handle, so the end of the 40" hook at the end of you arm is probably a good bet. Don't forget an incline or elevated position can extend the strike distance. Climbers and hikers should be aware of where they put their hands when seeking a secure grip!
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Todd Hughes