Most Texans have seen a few snakes throughout their lifetime, but venomous species are being spotted in record numbers this year. Rapid urbanization and unprecedented rainfall are bringing these deadly serpents out of the woodwork at a rate that has never been seen before.

Southern copperheads are by far the most prevalent venomous snake in Texas.

Flickr/Karl Palutke The reptiles are light brown with dark bands and can be found in heavily wooded areas.

Rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and coral snakes are among the other venomous reptiles found in Texas.

Flickr/snowpeak So far this year, 12 children have been treated in Dallas for venomous snakebites, already five more than summer 2018

Precipitation often correlates with increased snake activity for reasons scientists do not fully understand, but one possible factor could be that it disturbs their habitats.

Flickr/azglenn Last winter’s unprecedented rainfall, attributed in part to climate change, may also be contributing to the phenomenon.

Rapid expansion has also been implicated as a probable cause.

Flickr/timcummins Areas that were once farmland are now suburbs of large cities, and snakes are being forced out of their homes.

Luckily, snakebites are rarely fatal. Allergic reactions pose the greatest risk, as they can lead to anaphylactic shock.

Wikimedia Commons/James Heilman, MD Nevertheless, you should always seek medical care immediately if you have been bitten.

In the event of a snakebite, keep the victim as calm as possible and watch for symptoms of shock.

Flickr/Thirteen Of Clubs Wash the bite area with disinfectant soap, remove any restrictive clothing or jewelry, and prevent movement of the afflicted limb while awaiting medical attention. Under no circumstance should you apply a tourniquet or electric shock, cut between the punctures, or attempt to suck the venom out.

Prevention is paramount to avoid snakebites.

Flickr/Erlin Krotpong Always wear thick boots when hiking, keep lawn areas well-manicured, and remove anything that could attract snakes, such as rodents.

Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website to learn more.

Flickr/Karl Palutke

The reptiles are light brown with dark bands and can be found in heavily wooded areas.

Flickr/snowpeak

So far this year, 12 children have been treated in Dallas for venomous snakebites, already five more than summer 2018

Flickr/azglenn

Last winter’s unprecedented rainfall, attributed in part to climate change, may also be contributing to the phenomenon.

Flickr/timcummins

Areas that were once farmland are now suburbs of large cities, and snakes are being forced out of their homes.

Wikimedia Commons/James Heilman, MD

Nevertheless, you should always seek medical care immediately if you have been bitten.

Flickr/Thirteen Of Clubs

Wash the bite area with disinfectant soap, remove any restrictive clothing or jewelry, and prevent movement of the afflicted limb while awaiting medical attention. Under no circumstance should you apply a tourniquet or electric shock, cut between the punctures, or attempt to suck the venom out.

Flickr/Erlin Krotpong

Always wear thick boots when hiking, keep lawn areas well-manicured, and remove anything that could attract snakes, such as rodents.

Have you spotted any venomous snakes in Texas this summer? If so, what species were they? Let us know about any experiences you’ve had, and check out our previous article for another creepy crawler that’s been rearing its ugly head: Giant Tarantulas Are Invading Texas By The Thousands This Summer.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.