Should You Kill Cottonmouths?

The University of Florida stated that trying to kill a snake greatly increases the risk of being bitten by one. Juvenile cottonmouths have more distinctive bands across their bodies and are lighter brown compared with adult cottonmouths. Juveniles also have bright-yellow tail tips that they use as lure to attract prey.

What do you do if you see a cottonmouth snake?

So what should you do if you encounter a cottonmouth (or any venomous snake really)? The first thing to do is to take a step backward and appreciate that you are likely invading its space (not the other way around). If a snake moves toward you, move to one side and let it go where it wants to go.

Are Cottonmouths worse than Copperheads?

Cottonmouth snakes are generally considered to have more potent venom. Copperheads are considered less venomous and there is some controversy as to whether or not bites from copperhead snakes need to be treated with antivenom. Copperhead and juvenile cottonmouth snakes are both brown in color.