how to teach a 3yo about poisons snakes

[welderguy]

I am trying to figure out how to teach my son about snakes, I'm not wanting to make him scared of snakes but at 3yo I don't think he will understand the difference between poisons and non-poisons snakes.
Wyatt ( my 3yo) has no fear of animals , lizards or bugs.
So any experiences or helpful hints from other parents would be helpful.

[Ken]

Just warn him to stay away from places where they hide.

[welderguy]

I have gone over the basics like dont lift up stuff that isnt in your play area, ( i check that stuff in his play area all the time) stay away from this or that , but he isnt grasping the why part, we have watched some nature shows about snakes , but he hasnt seen one in person yet, Been looking for a rat or gopher snake, but so far all I found was 2 diamond backs and a copper head , actually the copper head almost found me first when I was in the garden.

[COWBOYSURVIVAL]

My little girl is 5 and with Dad in the woods often. She is taught to respect things like snakes are dangerous and watch from a safe distance but otherwise leave them alone. Simple. Teach respect not fear.

[Ken]

This got me thinking. There's not much to worry about up here:

http://www.umass.edu/nrec/snake_pit/pages/real.html

http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/fishwild/pdf/risnakes.pdf

This link covers ALL states:

http://www.venombyte.com/venom/snakes/venomous_snakes_by_state.asp

[welderguy]

Thanks for the links Ken

[Ken]

Thanks for the links Ken

My pleasure! I was just looking at the Cottonmouth Snake. Back in high school, I played drums in a "garage band" - kinda' like the one in "Joe's Garage" except we never got famous - the name of the band was "Cottonmouth".......

[COWBOYSURVIVAL]

In addition to my last answer. I'll say this too. It is Dad's responsibilty with a child that is 3 to ensure there is no danger in the play area's. I know it is impossible to protect them from everything but still it is my responsibilty for some time to come. So, it is for DAD, mine and yours did it! There is a profound difference in a Father and a Dad! Thank God I was fortunate enough to have a Dad!~