Classic Pose

   Along about dusk a couple of days ago, Mark and I made a quick trip to the pier.  On the way down the hill, I made mention that we would probably see a snake since cottonmouths are more prone to be nocturnal.  We talked as we walked and made no effort to be stealthy.  As we started up the board ramp to the pier, a sudden stench reached us.  Yep, there was a cottonmouth somewhere!  Sure enough, just a short way down the pier, I spied our snake.  At first, the snake tried to sit quietly in hopes of going unseen but, once it realized we were aware of its presence, it went into its classic cottonmouth pose.  That pearly white mouth part was a sure signal that this snake was in no mood to put up with us.

  This classic pose of the cottonmouth is sort of a last ditch warning.  First, the musky smell of a cottonmouth will often be enough to deter anyone from getting too near.  The odor is hard to describe but once you do realize what it is, you will remember.  To me, it is sort of a combination of a pair of stinky socks and the muddy smell of low tide.  (Maybe throw in a few rotten potatoes, for good measure!)  Trust me, it is not a nice smell but it gets the job done.  The stench is there to warn you that a snake is in the area.  If you do smell it, the best move is no move until you find the snake, then slowly back away.   The next warning is that body tense, head up and mouth gaping pose...the classic cottonmouth pose.  With its mouth wide open, the origin of its name is quite apparent.  The inside is cotton white.  At first, the fangs are not extended but sort of laid back in a relaxed position.  If a threat is perceived, then the fangs come into action!  At this warning, people should have the good sense to know that the snake is not going to back down.  It will hold its ground and deliver a nasty bite.  Those hollow fangs are there to inject venom.  The bite is extremely painful and you should seek medical help immediately if bitten. 

  Mark and I were safe even though the cottonmouth was doing its best to warn us of its potential.  Being high up on the pier (instead of down on the same level as the snake) gave us the advantage of safely viewing the warning actions and that classic threatening pose.  If anything can be said about the cottonmouth, at least it does give warnings!  Sometimes, however, people are just not smart enough to heed those warnings.  Folks, it is best to watch where you are treading and never, ever think a cottonmouth is smiling at you when it is gaping.  It is warning you that those fangs are ready and able to give you a whooping and it will be one you will never forget!  Don't mess with a cottonmouth.