Western Cottonmouth

[shirleyp]

What do you think the rank smell is from?

Great series!!!

[mjdmike]

Thanks Shirley.

I don't know why they smell, other than it's just their scent. Anyone know?

[Daniel Bates]

They secrete a musk from glands located near the cloaca when they are disturbed.

[sandboa]

Originally Posted by Daniel Bates

They secrete a musk from glands located near the cloaca when they are disturbed.

And if you think Cottonmouths smell bad, the smell of an upset Copperhead is knee-buckling!

[mjdmike]

Thanks Daniel, good info.

Wow Chris, I guess I've never smelled a Copperhead, and can't imagine -- because a Cottonmouth is R-A-N-K!

...learn something new everyday...

[dtran]

Wow, I can't believe you could take those great pics. You are so brave Mike.

[Glassman]

Wow, I seldom see any snakes here in Louisiana, well done. If I need some snake pics, I know who to come to,

[luis_relampago]

The only way I could snap a picture of a snake it's on the Zoo a few feet away from it's glass cage, no flash obviously
I have much respect for this animals and won't take any chances with them in a live situation. You are a brave man, and those are great shots. Congrats!!

[mjdmike]

Thanks Luis, Billy, and Duc.