DNR officials: If you see a snake, steer clear

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) - If you're heading outside - to the river, or a local park - there is the chance of encountering wildlife, including snakes.

Officials with the Department of Natural Resources want to remind you that the likelihood of encountering a venomous snake in South Carolina is rare. Just six out of the 38 species of snakes that live across the state are venomous.

However, officials say if you encounter any type of snake, give it space, and do not try to approach it. And when it comes to protecting your yard and your house, there are a few things you can do.

"Most of them are trying to be camouflaged, they're sit and wait predators," explained Herpetologist Will Dillman with DNR. "So doing things like keeping your grass mowed short, if you have any debris in the yard, rock piles, things like that laying flat against the ground, you want to clean that up."

Dillman said most snakes in public waterways are nonvenomous. But the same rules apply: if you see one - steer clear.

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