Florida’s reputation as a snake paradise just got more terrifying.
The Sunshine State is crawling with venomous serpents that are sending hundreds to the hospital.
And what a 20-year study revealed about these two Florida snake species put jaws on the ground.
University of Florida exposes 20 years of venomous snake attack data
Florida is home to six different venomous snake species, but a groundbreaking new study from the University of Florida has revealed which ones are causing the most damage.
Researchers analyzed 546 venomous snakebite cases at Shands Hospital in Gainesville between 2002 and 2022, uncovering disturbing trends about who’s getting bitten and why.
The study identified two main culprits responsible for more than half of all identified snake attacks in Florida – the pygmy rattlesnake and the cottonmouth (water moccasin).
According to the study, Florida’s snake bites represent a significant public health concern, with hundreds of cases documented over the two-decade research period.
The pygmy rattlesnake topped the list at 27.8% of all bites, while the cottonmouth came in second at 27.1%.
Together, these two species were responsible for more snake attacks than all other venomous Florida snakes combined – including the eastern coral snake (15.9%), eastern diamondback rattlesnake (7.9%), timber rattlesnake (3.1%), and southern copperhead (2.9%).
Florida snake victims made one critical mistake that nearly cost them their lives
The UF study revealed a concerning trend in treatment delays for snake bite victims.
Researchers discovered that patients waited an average of 2.03 hours before going to the hospital after being bitten.Â
Once they arrived, they waited an additional 4.22 hours before receiving lifesaving antivenom treatment.
That’s more than six hours from bite to treatment – precious time that could mean the difference between life and death, or permanent disability.
Even more disturbing, about 10% of snake bite victims attempted dangerous DIY remedies before seeking medical help, like tourniquets, cutting the wound, or trying to suck out the venom – all treatments doctors strongly advise against.
The study documented that some patients experienced serious medical complications including shock, respiratory distress, and seizures. Despite medical intervention, three patients died from their snake bites.
Preventable snake encounters put Americans at risk
The study found that most bites occurred in male patients, predominantly adults aged 21-65 (64.9%), followed by children/adolescents aged 0-20 (28.3%), with seniors over 65 experiencing the fewest bites (6.8%).
The research showed that at least one-third of all snake bites could potentially have been prevented.
According to the study, about one-third of patients reported they were intentionally handling or interacting with venomous snakes when they were bitten.
Two-thirds of all bites were located on the hand or fingers, suggesting victims were reaching for or grabbing snakes when the incidents occurred.
According to the study, most patients recovered, but the process involved significant pain and treatment.Â
The researchers noted that even with proper medical care, between 10-44% of rattlesnake bite survivors experience lasting injuries such as lost fingers or permanent tissue damage.
Florida’s diverse snake population poses ongoing risks
Beyond the native venomous species, the study found approximately 5% of bites came from non-native exotic venomous snakes – a growing concern with Florida’s thriving reptile trade and hobbyist community.
In about 9% of cases, the snake species couldn’t even be identified by medical professionals, complicating treatment decisions.
The CDC reports that nationwide, about 7,000-8,000 people suffer venomous snake bites annually.Â
While the fatality rate remains relatively low thanks to modern medical care, many survivors face permanent disabilities and disfigurement.
What you need to know to stay safe from Florida’s venomous snakes
Experts recommend these key steps to avoid becoming the next snake bite statistic:
- Never handle or disturb snakes you encounter in the wild;
- Watch carefully where you place your hands and feet, especially in tall grass, leaf piles, and near logs;
- Wear protective clothing like long pants and boots in snake-prone areas;
- Educate family members on basic snake identification and safety; and
- Be particularly cautious near waterways and in brush where cottonmouths and pygmy rattlesnakes are commonly found.
If bitten, seek immediate medical attention and avoid home remedies.Â
Remove any tight clothing or jewelry near the bite site, try to keep the wound at heart level, and get to a hospital as quickly as possible.
As this study makes clear, Florida’s snake danger is real – but most bites occur when humans make poor decisions around these potentially deadly creatures.
