Spring is in the air! As the weather heats up and the spring rains come, the flowers bloom and the fauna emerges. Spring time is one of the most enjoyable seasons for hiking in Taiwan, as the ecological diversity is on full display. One of Taiwan's inhabitants emerging from the cold winter are the abundance of snakes! Don't be deterred, as this post will run through some common snakes in Taiwan, and what to do when you come across them.

Snake Encounter DO'S and DON'TS

DO:

It can be quite common to come across a snake while hiking the vast trails in Taiwan. If you happen to encounter one, stay calm and give it some room. Snakes generally feel your vibrations ahead of time and will slither away accordingly. If they do not, try stomping your feet from a distance to encourage it to slither away. If there are no other options, carefully move around it yourself.

DO NOT:

Do not prod at it with a stick, throw rocks, or disturb it in any way. This will only agitate the snake and increase the previously slim chance of catching a snake bite. The general rule of thumb is snakes can strike at half their body length. While side stepping it, make sure to give yourself at least double or triple that distance.

DO:

Keep an eye on the trail ahead of you. If you are hiking in tall grass be sure to look down while walking. In order to give yourself the chance to enjoy the whole of the scenery around you, bring a walking stick to help move the grass and deter snakes.

DO NOT:

Walk blindly over fallen logs, into tall grass, or any other obstacles a snake might want to relax under. Keep your eyes out for snakes under large piles of wood.

DO:

Wear appropriate clothing. It isn't ideal to walk through tall grasses, jungle forests, etc, with flip flops on. Be advised long pants and sturdy boots are the best defense against a snake getting frisky.