Why the classic criteria fail in the field
Round pupil against slit pupil, large head scales against small, upturned snout: these criteria are correct, and unusable. They require standing within a metre of an animal that, at that range, considers itself cornered.
A photo taken from three metres solves it. The model works on the whole silhouette, the dorsal pattern and the tail proportion — signals visible from afar that the human eye does not use, because it was never taught them.
Snakes are protected almost everywhere
In most of Europe and much of North America, killing, capturing or transporting a snake is illegal whatever the species and whatever the reason. The correct response to meeting one is to step aside and let it leave.
If a snake is inside a building
- Close the door of the room and leave an exit to the outside if possible.
- Attempt nothing yourself: most bites happen during an attempted capture.
- Call the local fire service or a wildlife rescue group.
The right photo reflex
Zoom with the camera rather than stepping closer. The quality lost to digital zoom costs less than a defensive bite, and the model copes well: a whole silhouette, even pixelated, is plenty.