Question:
We are starting a new llama ranch within the next month. Having visited several ranchers, we are excited about beginning and have chosen our first llamas. We do have a concern about snakes. There are some Copperheads in our area. Should we be concerned about snake bites on our llamas?

Answer:
In some parts of the country poisonous snake bites can become a striking reality. Your question related specifically to Copperheads so we will primarily address that venomous snake.

Here are some common facts regarding Copperhead snake bites.

1. Most bites occur in the lips of the llama, although bites to the face, body and legs can also occur.

2. One will generally not see the snake just the symptoms of the bite.

3. Rapid onset of swelling is common but may also be delayed. Muscle twitching and dead tissue are often evident.

4. A snake bite is painful and a discharge of serum and blood may be seen at the site of the bite.

5. If you suspect a snake bite be sure to call your veterinarian for immediate treatment.

6. If treated properly, most snake bites are not fatal.

7. If the nose and airway are occluded due to the swelling, putting a straw in each nostril will assure continued air exchange.

8. Using ice or slicing and sucking on the bite site is not recommended.

9. A llama with snake bite should be restrained to limit activity.

10. Copperheads like rocks, railroad ties, downed trees and water. They are seldom found in the middle of the pasture. They normally don’t go over 50 yards from these environments. They are good swimmers.

11. Copperheads smell distinctively like almonds, you normally smell them if they are in an area.

12. The baby snakes have the most potent bite.

13. Pot belly pigs will hunt and kill snakes, thus an option in snake infested areas is to run a couple of pot belly pigs with your llama herd.

The 1994 February-March issue of Llama Banner had two articles on poisonous snake bites by Dr. C. Norman Evans and Tracy Pearson. These articles are very complete in establishing what to expect and on recommended treatments and dosages. If you are at all concerned about venomous snake bites this article certainly recommended reading. Should you ever have a llama bitten by a poisonous snake being prepared may save the life of your favorite llama.

I would like to thank Tracy Pearson from Pearson Pond Ranch for sharing her experience, knowledge and notes on the subject.