Snakes

- are elongated, legless, carnivorous reptiles of the

suborder Serpentes that can be distinguished from
legless lizards by their lack of eyelids and external ears. 
Scientific name: Serpentes
Lifespan: 8.8 y on average (Acrochordus arafurae,
Captivity)
Rank: Suborder
Higher classification: Ophidia
Length: 10 cm on average (Barbados threadsnake,
Adult), 250 cm (Acrochordus arafurae, Adult)
Lower classifications: Alethinophidia, Scolecophidia
VENOMOUS SNAKES IN THE PHILIPPINES
Philippine Cobra
Rattle Snake
Vipers
Coral Snake
Sea Snake
 SNAKE IDENTIFICATION
LANCE-HEADED PIT VIPERS

Long, hinged fangs that tuck into roof of mouth when

not in use.
Vertically elliptical eye pupils; pit vipers with heat
sensing organ between eye and nostril.
Broad triangular head very distinct from narrow neck.
 SNAKE IDENTIFICATION
COBRAS/CORAL SNAKES/SEA SNAKES

Short fangs fixed in erect position in front of mouth.

Round eye pupils.
Head small and not distinct from the body
Poisonous and non-poisonous Snakes
 If a snake bites you . . .
To reduce your risk of snakebite, avoid touching any snake. Instead, back away slowly. Most snakes avoid
people if possible and bite only when threatened or surprised.
 Remain calm.
 Immobilize the bitten arm or leg, and stay as quiet as possible to keep the
poison from spreading through your body.
 Remove jewelry before you start to swell.
 Position yourself, if possible, so that the bite is at or below the level of your
heart.
 Cleanse the wound, but don't flush it with water, and cover it with a clean, dry
dressing.
 Apply a splint to reduce movement of the affected area, but keep it loose
enough so as not to restrict blood flow.
 Don't use a tourniquet or apply ice.
 Don't cut the wound or attempt to remove the venom.
 Don't drink caffeine or alcohol.
 Don't try to capture the snake, but try to remember its color and shape so you
can describe it, which will help in your treatment.
 Call 911 or seek immediate medical attention, especially if the area changes color,
begins to swell or is painful.
 What to do?
If you know  the snake is not venomous, treat as a puncture wound.
1. Note the Snake's Appearance
Be ready to describe the snake to emergency staff.
2. Protect the Person
While waiting for medical help:
Move the person beyond striking distance of the snake.
Have the person lie down with wound below the heart.
Keep the person still to keep venom from spreading.
Cover the wound with loose, sterile bandage.
Do not:
Cut a bite wound
Attempt to suck out venom
Apply tourniquet, ice, or water
Give the person alcohol or caffeinated drinks
 What to do?
3. Follow Up
If you treat the bite at home:
Contact a health care provider. The person may need a
tetanus shot may be given, depending on date of last
injection. Tetanus boosters should be given every 10
years.
At the hospital, treatment will depend on the type of
snake.
If the snake was venomous, the person will be given
anti-venom treatment. (available only at PGH-Manila)
Beware of Snakes!!!