Snakes

Thanks to drbruce for this picture of a snake.

There are many types of snake in Thailand, most of which are found in all areas of the country. Some varieties are harmless, while others pose a very serious threat to life if you are bitten. Snakes are also found in urban areas and they are often easy to spot even in down town Bangkok, swimming in the canals and rivers.

Walking in undergrowth, gardening, swimming, moving logs or items in your garage, are all situations that could easily bring you face to face with a killer snake. Some are quite passive in nature, while others are very aggressive if disturbed.

The most dangerous varieties are the Chain Viper, several types of Krait, various Cobras (including the spitting Cobra found in the South of Thailand), the King Cobra, Coral Snakes, Pit Vipers... all of which are extremely dangerous and can kill you.

If you are bitten by a snake, try not to panic as they are not always fatal but you should get to a hospital immediately. Don't delay, act quickly and call for help. Treatments are available everywhere. If it is safe to do so, kill the snake and take it with you for identification.

There are also many non-poisonous varieties. However, it is often difficult to distinguish them from poisonous varieties and you should treat them all as dangerous and avoid them at all costs.

Wear jeans and sturdy boots when walking in undergrowth. Take great care when handling items on the ground with cavities where snakes may be hiding. If there is a hole or cavity, assume there is a snake inside it. If a snake appears to be dead, assume it is still alive. DO NOT sleep on the ground.

Thousands of people are bitten every year. Snakes pose a very real threat to life.