I'll be hiking extensively in Costa Rica's rainforests next month and wonder about snakes, especially fer-de-lance. I'll be wearing boots and long pants at all times. Is this sufficient protection?
2006-12-24 12:05:32 · 7 answers · asked by zackmann1965 1 in Travel ➔ Latin America ➔ Costa Rica
You probably won't even see them. Still, learn what you can about the snakes in that region, their sleeping habits, their level of aggressivity. Antivenom can be purchased in most towns; bring some just in case. Fer-de-Lance and Bushmaster cause the most attacks, but their venom is weak and rarely fatal. The real killers are small and shy, often noctural, and rarely on the trails. Coral snakes have tiny teeth and cannot deliver the poison without repeated chewing. Mice beware, but don't worry too much. If you get bit, don't use a torniquet. Don't cut or suck out the poison. Keep the limb immobile (to reduce circulation) and send for help. Wear leather boots; they usually go for the ankles. Be calm and respectful on your treks and nature will treat you the same.
Have fun!
2006-12-26 05:06:28 · answer #1 · answered by Jake 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unlike what someone here said, the venom of the fer-de-lance and bushmaster is highly venomous, and though with antivenim you do have an excellent chance of surviving a bite, the bitten area will never be the same. Both venoms contain proteins that dissolve body tissue.
The bushmaster is especially nasty, but rare. Fer-de-Lance bites are much more common. Most venomous snakes in Costa Rica are nocturnal.
The best way to avoid snake bites is not to walk through tall grass, always look where you put your feet, and bring a good flashlight when you walk outside after dark.
2006-12-27 09:24:18 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Boots are a good idea. Also, make sure you know what snakes live around the area you're going to, what to do in the case of a snake bite, the local hospitals--and try to have a phone with you or some way to communicate with authorities + medics just in case.
2006-12-24 20:09:24 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
DON'T GO THERE!!! Seriously, watch your step, and watch where you place your hands, such as tree limbs, rock crevices etc... and invest in a comfortable pair of snake boots for the trip, they will be worth ever penny!!!
2006-12-24 20:20:30 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get some snake proof chaps.
2006-12-24 20:14:42 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure.
I'm costarican & I wasn't bite for snakes.
2006-12-26 14:19:35 · answer #6 · answered by (CR) Ri Ben Guo 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think that you will be O.K. Just watch your step!
2006-12-28 19:34:10 · answer #7 · answered by lallallala 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋