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SSC employees should become familiar with the various types of spiders and snakes that can be found in this region of the country. Most spiders are harmless and in fact are beneficial because they prey upon flies, crickets, and other insects. They generally will not attempt to bite humans unless held or accidentally trapped. Of the hundreds of species found in the United States, only the black widow and brown recluse are dangerous. Fortunately, both are relatively uncommon, and have markings that can be used to distinguish them from other non-threatening species. |
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There are two types of poisonous snakes in the area. The Crotaline (pit vipers) can be identified by a depression or pit located between the eye and the nostril on either side of the head, as well as an elliptical eye-pupil and wide head. This group includes the diamondback rattlesnake, pygmy rattlesnake, canebrake rattlesnake, cottonmouth moccasin and the copperhead. The venom of these snakes affects and destroys the red blood cells and the walls of the blood vessels. The Elapine is represented in this region only by the coral snake. The venom of this snake is neuro-toxic, and affects the nervous system of the victim through paralytic action. |
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Removal of unnecessary clutter is especially helpful in making areas unattractive to these pests. To avoid being bitten, maintain an awareness of your surroundings and wear proper protective clothing such as gloves, boots and/or leggings when inspecting/moving stored items or walking in woods or fields. Hunters, anglers and outdoor lovers should not overlook the fact that they may encounter one or more species of these spiders and snakes on almost every type of terrain. Additional information can be found at http://www.ag.ohio-state.edu/~ohioline/hyg-fact/2000/2061.html and http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/natsci/herpetology/fl-guide/venomsnk.htm |
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The three most common poisonous plants Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac These plants are the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis in the United States. All contain the potent antigen urushiol, which will sensitize 60% to 80% of the persons who are exposed to it. This volatile oil may be carried on the fur of pets, clothing, shoes, toys, tools, or other objects and then transferred to the skin. Approximately 24 to 36 hours after a sensitized person is exposed to the urushiol, a blistery, itching rash develops. Usually within 15 minutes of contact, the urushiol binds to skin proteins. If it is washed off with soap and water before that time, a reaction may be prevented. After the antigen is fixed, however, it cannot be washed off or transferred to other areas. Scratching or oozing blisters cannot spread the antigen to other areas of the body or to other persons. New lesions that appear a few days after the primary lesions represent less sensitive areas where less antigen was deposited. |
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