A hiker in Tennessee has died after being bitten by a rattlesnake he reportedly picked up while on a trail in Savage Gulf State Park, Grundy County. The incident occurred Friday, according to The Hill.
Witnesses say the man, who has not been identified, picked up what was believed to be a Timber rattlesnake and was bitten on the hand, Grundy County Emergency Management Agency’s Matt Griffith told WTVC. The man was approximately half a mile into the trail when the bite occurred. Emergency responders arrived at the scene but were unable to save him.
Venomous snakebites are not uncommon in the U.S., with the CDC reporting between 7,000 and 8,000 incidents each year. However, fatalities are rare, with only about five deaths annually.
Authorities reminded the public not to approach or handle snakes in the wild. “If you encounter a snake, simply remain calm and do not attempt to handle it,” the Emergency Management Agency advised. “If bitten, seek immediate medical attention.”
Timber rattlesnakes are known to be more docile than other rattlesnake species, often choosing to stay coiled rather than strike unless provoked, according to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.
