A hiker lost his life after being bitten by a venomous snake in Tennessee’s Savage Gulf State Park. The man, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly just half a mile down the trailhead when first responders arrived at approximately 12.30 p.m. last Friday. Despite life-saving efforts and being taken to a local hospital, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.
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According to the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency, the victim was likely bitten by a timber rattlesnake, one of the most venomous species in the eastern United States. Witnesses told officials that the hiker had picked up the snake, which then bit him on the hand. It is believed that he died from an allergic reaction, although the full cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Matthew Griffith, a spokesperson for the Grundy County EMA, emphasised the importance of safety in outdoor areas. He urged hikers to remain calm when encountering snakes and avoid handling them. “It’s always recommended to carry first aid supplies during outdoor activities and be mindful of wildlife and potential dangers,” Griffith stated.
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Timber rattlesnakes are the largest and most dangerous of Tennessee’s four venomous snakes, growing up to five feet in length and identifiable by their triangular heads, vertical pupils, and distinctive rattles. However, fatalities from bites are rare, with fewer than one in 600 resulting in death. The species is generally docile, preying mostly on small rodents and often remaining still when humans are nearby.
