Can You Outrun A Snake? [How Fast Are You?]

When it comes to snakes, there’s a lot of misinformation and misconceptions floating around. For example, can you outrun a snake?

People have debated that question for years. Some say that you can easily outrun a snake, while others believe snakes are faster than people and can easily catch them. So, which is it? Can you outrun a snake or not?

Can You Outrun A Snake?

It’s a common misconception that snakes are fast, dangerous predators that can outrun their human prey. In reality, most snakes are slow-moving creatures. Even the quickest snakes, such as the black mamba, only travel at speeds of 18 miles per hour. This is far slower than the average person.

Most of the time, you can outrun a snake, as humans can outpace even the quickest snake. But it’s not just about speed. Being observant and knowledgeable about dealing with snakes can help keep you safe when outdoors.

There is a lot of information on the internet, and it can be tough to know which sources to trust. If you’re looking for reliable information on whether you can outrun a snake, you may be wondering where you can find an expert opinion. Luckily, we happened to compile this resource just for you.

How to Outrun a Snake?

Engaging with a snake, whether by trying to kill it or capture it, is one of the surest ways to get bitten. Snakes are often shy and will try to avoid contact with humans if given a chance. If you come across a snake in your path, the best course is to walk away calmly.

If you must go through the snake’s area, try to do so quickly and without making too much noise. The snake will not bother you if you leave it alone in most cases. However, there are some instances in which a snake may feel threatened and will attack even if you don’t engage with it. 

If you are in an area with a high population of snakes, it is best to be cautious and avoid areas where they are likely to be found.

Are Humans Faster Than Snakes?

When it comes to speed, snakes and humans are not evenly matched. Humans can run about 15 miles per hour, while the fastest snakes can only reach speeds of around 18 miles per hour. Only a handful of snake species can even come close to reaching human speeds.

So, if you ever find yourself in a foot race with a snake, you’ll be the one crossing the finish line first.

Of course, speed is not the only factor to consider when judging who would win in a race between a human and a snake. Snakes are much more agile than humans, and they can easily change directions mid-sprint. They also have an advantage in acceleration.

Do Snakes Chase Humans?

Given their reputation, it’s no wonder that people are often alarmed when they see a snake. However, it’s important to remember that snakes are generally shy creatures that want nothing to do with humans. Most snakes will go out of their way to avoid contact with people.

There are several reasons for this. First of all, snakes are not naturally aggressive creatures. Secondly, snakes have very poor eyesight and are often unable to tell the difference between a human and another animal. As a result, they are just as likely to be scared of us as we are of them.

Finally, snakes rely on camouflage for protection, and if they feel threatened, their first instinct is to flee rather than fight. So, the next time you see a snake, don’t panic—chances are it’s more afraid than you are of it.

How Do Snakes Slither?

Snakes are one of the most unique creatures in the animal kingdom. Unlike four-legged animals, they move in a completely different way. 

Their long, slender bodies allow them to slither across the ground at lightning speeds. But how exactly do they do it?

The answer lies in their skeleton. Snakes have over 400 vertebrae, which are much more flexible than human bones

This flexibility allows them to move in a side-to-side motion, propelling themselves forward with each push. In addition, their scales provide traction, allowing them to grip the ground and keep moving forward.

Interestingly, not all snakes slither in the same way. Some species, such as tree snakes, actually undulate their bodies, moving up and down as they travel. Others, like sea snakes, have a more gentle side-to-side motion. But regardless of their method, all snakes are amazing creatures perfectly adapted to their environments.

Which Snakes Can You Outrun?

The Sidewinder

The Sidewinder is a small, fast-moving snake found in desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. While it is not venomous, it can deliver a painful bite if provoked. The Sidewinder gets its name from how it moves sideways across the sand.

This unique locomotion allows it to travel quickly over the hot, sandy surface with minimal effort. However, what The Sidewinder lacks in size, it more than makes up for in speed.

It can reach speeds of up to 10 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest snakes in the world. While this may seem fast, humans can outrun The Sidewinder. We can reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour when sprinting, so we can easily outrun this little snake.

The Black Mamba

One of the world’s deadliest snakes, the Black Mamba can strike with deadly accuracy up to 12 times in a row. Its venom is so potent that just one bite can kill a human within minutes. However, the Black Mamba is not particularly fast despite its reputation.

Humans can easily outrun it. The average Black Mamba strike only covers a distance of about six feet, which a human can easily hide in a few strides. 

Even if a snake were to bite a person on the foot or ankle, there would still be time to outrun it. So while the Black Mamba is certainly a feared creature, there is no need to be afraid of its speed.

Southern Black Racers

The Southern Black Racer is a species of snake found in the southeastern United States. Although they are not venomous, they are fast and aggressive, making them a dangerous opponent. They are a few snake species that will actively chase down their prey.

However, despite their speed and ferocity, humans can outrun them. Southern Black Racers can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour, but humans can run at speeds of 15 miles per hour. In addition, snakes are limited in their ability to turn, while humans can make quick turns without losing momentum.

As a result, if you find yourself being chased by a Southern Black Racer, your best bet is to run in a zigzag pattern and make your way to safety.