Keep an eye out for the South Dakota prairie rattlesnake

Almost 8,000 people are bitten by a venomous snake each year in the United States. Here in KOTA Territory we would like to remind you that South Dakota’s prairie rattlesnake is more active this time of year.

The chances of dying from a venomous snake bite are nearly zero, but if you are bitten, seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you are in a rural area, do your best to call 911 so that they are aware of your situation and can respond adequately.

If you plan on hiking on one of the many trails in Rapid City or in the Black Hills, you should always tell someone where you will be and when you expect to return.

"You do need to get immediately to the hospital all of the first aid measures you heard about in the past are wrong I don't use tourniquets, you don't cut and suck, you don't hook yourself up to your car battery and electrocute yourself,” said Terry Phillip, Reptile Gardens curator of reptiles. “The longer it takes to get to the hospital to receive medical treatment the more damage a rattlesnake bite will do systematically."

Another common misconception is with baby rattlesnakes and their venom.

“Only difference between a baby rattlesnake an adult rattlesnake is size. Baby rattlesnakes are a little mimics of their parents, they have full control over their venom delivery system,” said Phillip, “Their venom is no more toxic than the adults and in fact if you're going to be bitten by a snake it's best to be bitten by a smaller snake than a bigger snake within the same species."

The best way to avoid a snake bite is to always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.