KNOP (North Platte, Nebraska) 23 September 13 Snake Bites On The Rise (Kent Winder)
The flood water may be receding but it's still creating some issues for area residents.
The rising waters are displacing many animals including snakes.
That is why snake bites are becoming a source of concern for people who live close to the river.
This weekend the South Platte swelled to almost a foot and a half over flood stage.
The flood water may have displaced some animals and brought then closer to residential areas.
One area of concern is snakes.
There are not that many rattle snakes in the river valley,” said Lance Hastings with Nebraska Game and Parks.
“There could be some rattle snakes displaced but primarily you will see bull snakes and garter snakes that are displaced in large numbers.”
Bull snakes do get pretty big and some people could mistake them for a rattle snake.
Bull snakes are pretty aggressive and so generally bull snakes are more aggressive than rattle snakes.
Pets could get bit by bull snakes probably more so than rattle snakes.
A bull snake can be mistaken for a rattle snake because they hiss quite a bit and some mistake that hiss for the rattle of a rattle snake.
Since a bull snake is aggressive there is a chance pets could come in contact with them
“Bull snakes are not poisonous but they can cause infections so if you are bit by a bull snake you should seek medical attention and make sure it doesn't get infected.
If it is a rattle snake you want to get medical attention if it is yourself.
If it is your dog go to a veterinarian,” said Hastings.
Hastings says as the river recedes the snakes will return to their natural habitat.
Until then he says it is wise to be a little more careful with our pets if you live near the river.
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