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Snakebites Surge in Texas, Calif.

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 30, 2009 6:30 AM CDT

(Newser) – Poison control centers have witnessed a steep rise in snakebites in parts of the country this summer, USA Today reports. Authorities in central Texas say bites are up 35%, and southern California has seen many more serious cases than usual. Some experts suspect more snakes are developing powerful toxins in their venom, although conclusive evidence has yet to emerge.

Drought conditions in central Texas are believed to be behind the increase in snakebites there this summer as snakes seek cooler areas near homes. Urban sprawl is blamed for a steady increase in snakebites in many areas in recent years. "We have seen more interactions between people and snakes because of the way we build," said one California toxicologist. "We build schools right on canyons inhabited by rattlesnakes."

The American Association of Poison Control Centers receives some 2,000 reports of snakebites each year, of which only an average of six are fatal.
The American Association of Poison Control Centers receives some 2,000 reports of snakebites each year, of which only an average of six are fatal.   (©mikebaird)
The copperhead is among the most poisonous snakes found in central Texas, where snakebites are up sharply.
The copperhead is among the most poisonous snakes found in central Texas, where snakebites are up sharply.   (©eldiablosledge)
California authorities have seen an increase in rattlesnake bites this year.
California authorities have seen an increase in rattlesnake bites this year.   (Shutter Stock)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 5 comments
freethemall
Jul 31, 2009 4:19 AM CDT
@Wraith: Interesting and informative post. I just wonder if non-venomous snakes would be sufficient to control the proliferation of plague carrying rodents,
jagerhans
Jul 31, 2009 1:42 AM CDT
gosh, your sense of humor is pathetic. you should report your post to the moderator 'cos it is offensive in the regards of your own intelligence. if you are lucky you'll get banned.
Netstorm2k10
Jul 30, 2009 12:01 PM CDT
It's Obama's fault, er, wait... no, I mean it's Bush's fault, um... shit. I know! It's the Cambridge police to blame. Right? Guys? Hello?

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