Do snakes chase you?

In different cultures, snakes chasing human beings are considered a myth while to others they are a fact. Well, it depends on the snake encountered. It is logical for a snake to chase its prey before catching it. In such a case then it is totally possible and unfortunate that a human can be a prey subject. However, such snakes so large to swallow a whole human are rare to find in normal human settlements. This makes it normal for people in densely populated areas to consider this a myth.



Snake chasing human scenarios
Large constrictors and pit vipers such as the bushmasters are some of the snake species that are capable of displaying such terrifying scenarios. The bushmaster (Lachesis Muta Muta) is venomous and can grow up to 3 meters long. Such snakes will only chase humans as a self-defense effort. Some large constrictors such as pythons and boas are able to swallow young humans. It is a widely known case for snakes to be captured dead after having meals of larger proportions than they can digest so yes it is possible for a snake to munch on a human but not chase them. These large snakes are slow movers and cannot catch up with a running human.

Other reasons why a snake might chase you

For a snake to chase you then one of the following might be the case;

• She wants to protect her eggs
• Self defense
• Following the warmth of your body in cold weather
• Intimidation and provoking
• Snake charming

It is possible for the snake to run in the same direction as you with an aim of escaping from you and this is called a panic reaction which can happen to both human and snake confusing them.

Fear
Fear is the cause of people believing that all snakes can chase you. Due to the negative publicity of snakes around the world most people grow up with a fear of snakes.

Why you should never provoke snakes
It is important to know that snakes do not want to bite something they will not eat. Since snakes are cold blooded they will minimize the loss of precious energy on non beneficial activities. You should take advantage of this weakness by leaving them alone and not disturb a resting snake. Unless you have a good reason, do not attempt to trap or corner a resting snake.