[GeoStL] Re: NGR: Snake Bite

Not sure who K is, but i'm sorry to hear about the incident.
That is why it is a VERY GOOD idea to NEVER handle a snake unless you can 
positively ID it.

Also, DO NOT avoid a trip to the ER if you believe you have been bitten by a 
venomous snake!!!
Although the bite of a copper head is generally not life threatening, why take 
the chance. It's possible
that you may be one of the unfortunate few who are alergic to the venom.

BTW, the scientific name for nonvenomous counter part is natrix, not matrix. 
And that is out dated. The 
accepted name for the genus is now nerodia. Gotta love the taxonimists & their 
name changes! :-)

Eric





  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: JimSGreene@xxxxxxx 
  To: geocaching@xxxxxxxxxxxxx 
  Sent: Sunday, August 28, 2005 9:22 PM
  Subject: [GeoStL] NGR: Snake Bite


  Update to follow, since our good friend K. encountered a medium sized copper 
head while mowing, and in return for his good will in trying to move the snake, 
which he thought was a matrix (a harmless water snake), it bit him on both 
hands.  He went to an emergency room, and the treatment turned out to be 
antihistimines and bed rest.  The venom is not fatal, except to small animals.  
He is currently sleeping off the effects of the drugs, and will be monitored by 
friends while he recovers.  The snake will get a good meal of mouse before 
being released.  A digital series of the wounds might be compiled, unless there 
is objection from the subject.  He's in no condition at present to agree to 
anything.  If anyone has a similar mishap, take antihistimines and save 
yourself a hospital bill.  You'll be fine.  Remember, it is illegal to kill our 
valuable snakes.  Please release the culprit within two miles of where you 
found it, since relocation results in hardship and death usually.  Please brace 
yourselves as the subject of this email is rather grisly, but we don't want any 
of you to go through being assaulted by a brown recluse.  Unfortunately for 
these spiders, kill them at will.  Please spare their harmless cousins, though. 
 Again, turn on a light in any storage area and wait until the critters go hide 
before you go in.  Take care all, and good luck.

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