They call him Cowboy. That is just his nickname. Few people know any different. He was born in Texas during the 1940’s. His parents worked on a farm, so he knows all about horses, cows, chickens, and other farm animals. He worked cattle when he was younger. Cowboy is known to be the best horse trader in the area. He also knows how to be aware of snakes, coyotes, wolves, opossums, and skunks, too!
He is truly an expert on snakes!
Here are some tips he has for watching out and being careful if you know you are in rattlesnake territory. He says that snakes, the rattlers Texas is known for, hibernate during the cold winter months. They come out of hiding when the weather warms up. While they are hibernating or when they first wander out, they are less likely to strike. They are slow at first to move about, but be careful once it gets really hot outside. Wear your boots high and do not walk in grass that is too tall. Be careful not to move large logs, branches, large sheets of metal or pieces of wood. They love to hide under things like that. Keep a gun handy, and know how to use it if you see a coiled snake. Once you hear the rattle, it might be too late. If you get bit, get to the doctor quick.
Now Cowboy also says that rattlesnake is good to eat. He says that when you skin a snake, if the meat is all white, it is alright! If it is dark, the snake has bitten himself after or while being killed. Do not try to cook it if you notice that. The snake has poisoned himself and you will be poisoned if you eat it, too.
Cowboy has been known to go rattlesnake hunting and bring home many still alive! Then he kills, skins, and cooks them up! He says that some people buy rattlesnake skins to use on hatbands, make boots out of, wallets, and others for western decorations.
Cowboy is an expert on them that is true. I would rather not be around them at all, but they are good eating!
