Can Humans Eat Snakes? A Guide to Edible Snakes

When it comes to survival situations, knowing which animals can be safely consumed is essential. Among the various critters out there, snakes might not be the first choice for many, but they can actually be a viable source of protein when other options are limited. In fact, snake meat is quite popular in some parts of the world, and all snakes in North America are safe for human consumption.

There is a common misconception that only non-venomous snakes are safe to eat, but venomous snakes can be consumed as long as the venom glands are removed or not ingested. Snake meat is considered a delicacy in several countries, and some edible snakes include the copperhead and the python. It’s important to know how to catch, kill, and prepare snakes properly to ensure a safe meal.

When venturing into the wilderness, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local snake species and their habits. This knowledge will not only help you identify the best candidates for consumption but also empower you to survive in challenging circumstances with confidence. Remember, snake meat can be a valuable source of nourishment, so don’t be afraid to consider them the next time you find yourself in need of a protein boost.

Commonly Consumed Snake Species

In this section, we will explore different snake species that are commonly consumed by humans. Although eating snakes might not be a common practice in your region, snake meat is considered a delicacy in many cultures around the world.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are among the most well-known snake species, and their meat is surprisingly tasty. It is often described as having a flavor similar to chicken or rabbit, with a firm, dense texture. People in the United States, especially in the Southwest, have been consuming rattlesnake meat for generations.

Some interesting facts about rattlesnakes:

• They use their trademark rattle to warn potential predators or threats.
• Rattlesnakes are venomous, but their venom is not harmful when ingested.

It’s essential to handle rattlesnake meat carefully during preparation to avoid any risk of venom exposure.

Copperheads

Copperhead snakes are another species that are consumed in some regions. They possess a striking copper and black color pattern, contributing to their name. While copperheads are venomous, proper handling and preparation methods ensure that their meat is safe to consume.

Some key points about copperheads:

• Their young have a yellow-tipped tail that they use to lure prey.
• Copperheads can live up to 18 years.

Pythons

Python meat is another option for those adventurous enough to try snake meat. Pythons are non-venomous constrictor snakes, which means they kill their prey by squeezing rather than injecting venom. This fact makes their meat an appealing choice for consumption.

A few facts about pythons:

• Pythons can grow to enormous sizes, with some species reaching over 20 feet in length.
• Python meat is low in fat and packed with protein.

Cottonmouths

Cottonmouth snakes, also known as water moccasins, derive their name from the white, cotton-like lining of their mouths. They are a venomous species, but with proper precautions during meat preparation, their venom is inactivated through the cooking process.

Fascinating facts about cottonmouths:

• They are semi-aquatic and often found near water sources.
• Cottonmouth snakes give birth to live young, unlike many other snake species that lay eggs.

In conclusion, while snake meat consumption may not be common in all cultures, rattlesnakes, copperheads, pythons, and cottonmouths are some of the species enjoyed by those with a taste for the exotic.

Cultural Context of Snake Consumption

Asia

In some parts of Asia, particularly China, snake consumption has been a part of the local culinary culture for centuries. Hong Kong, for example, is well-known for its snake soup industry. The soup is considered a delicacy and is made from a blend of different snake species. In Cantonese culture, snake consumption is linked to the belief that eating snakes can provide health benefits and contribute to overall well-being.

Africa

Traditionally, snake consumption in Africa is somewhat limited. However, in certain regions, snake meat is consumed by local communities. Most commonly, the meat is prepared by roasting, drying, or stewing the snake. While not as widely embraced as in other continents, snake-eating practices in Africa still hold cultural significance for some tribes.

Australia

Although not as popular in comparison to other continents, snake consumption in Australia has been practiced by Indigenous communities since ancient times. They’ve traditionally hunted and eaten a variety of snake species, including venomous ones. The meat is usually grilled or roasted and enjoyed as a part of their customary diet.

North America

In North America, snake consumption is comparatively rare. Nevertheless, there are some instances of snake-eating practices among the Indigenous communities. One such example is a Native American who was discovered to have eaten an entire western diamondback rattlesnake as part of a ritual or for sustenance. In other cases, snakes like rattlesnakes and boas have been used for medicinal purposes or even as a source of food in times of need.

While snake consumption might not be as widespread in some regions as in others, it remains a fascinating aspect of world culinary culture, and the varied methods of preparation and incorporation into diets reflect the diversity of human customs and beliefs.

Health Benefits and Risks

Nutritional Value

Snake meat is considered a lean protein source and can provide various necessary nutrients for our body. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional content of snake meat:

• High in protein: Snake meat is a good source of protein, which is needed for muscle growth and repair.
• Low in fat: Unlike other meats, snake meat is generally lower in fat, making it an attractive option for those monitoring their fat intake.

Potential Toxins

Despite the nutritional benefits, there are some potential risks associated with eating snakes:

• Disease transmission: Consuming snake meat can expose you to certain diseases, such as trichinosis, pentastomiasis, and gnathostomiasis (source). These diseases can cause serious health issues if not treated promptly.
• Ingesting venom: Although cooking snake meat should neutralize any venom present, care must be taken while preparing the meat to avoid accidental exposure. Improper handling, especially of venomous snakes, can result in injury or even poisoning.

It’s vital to be informed about the specific snake species being consumed, as well as the proper preparation techniques, to minimize the risks associated with eating snake meat. Snakes themselves, however, use different methods when consuming lizards, which I explore in my article here – Link to DO SNAKES EAT LIZARDS

Safe Snake Preparation and Cooking Methods

When it comes to eating snakes, it’s crucial to know how to safely prepare and cook them. In this section, we’ll discuss how to clean and skin a snake, as well as cooking techniques to make a delicious and safe meal.

Cleaning and Skinning

Before cooking a snake, it’s essential to properly clean and skin it to avoid any contamination. Here are the steps to clean and skin a snake safely:

1. First, cut off the head of the snake to eliminate the risk of venom exposure. Bury the head separately to ensure no accidental contact occurs.
2. Locate the snake’s anal vent about 2 inches from the bottom of the tail. Make a cut from the vent all the way up its stomach to begin skinning.
3. Carefully trim away any connective tissue, making sure not to puncture any internal organs.
4. Peel off the skin gently, and don’t discard it! Snake skin can be reused for various purposes, such as crafting or decoration.
5. Finally, remove the snake’s guts and set them aside. They can potentially be used as bait for your next catch¹.

Cooking Techniques

Once your snake is cleaned and skinned, it’s time to get cooking! There are a few different ways to cook snake meat, and each has its charm. Here are some of the popular cooking methods:

• Frying: Coat snake pieces in egg whites or milk, then roll in a cornbread mixture until thoroughly coated². Shake off excess breading and heat oil in a pan. Fry snake pieces until golden brown on all sides.
• Grilling: Marinade snake pieces in a flavorful sauce, then thread them onto skewers. Grill over medium heat until cooked through, turning occasionally to achieve even cooking.
• Stewing: Cut snake meat into smaller pieces and simmer them in a rich broth with various vegetables for a hearty meal.

Remember to cook the snake meat thoroughly to ensure any potential bacteria or parasites are destroyed. Also, be cautious while eating, as snake ribs can detach easily and pose a choking hazard².

Keep these preparation and cooking tips in mind when venturing into the culinary world of snakes, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a unique and tasty treat!