
I have killed some big rattlesnakes here in Texas, normally I am not that concerned when I run up on one. But it seem every time I go Quail hunting a snake spoils my day. After seeing one I spent the rest of the day watching the ground even while approaching the dog on point. The dog just looks at me as if saying "what's up man, I pointed them and you never fired a shot."
A friend was bitten on the left hand several years ago when he reached down to pick up a downed dove, The snake got him on the skin between the thumb and pointing finger. It was hot, he had a cooler full of drinks, so he puts his hand in the ice water while his son drives him to the hospital.
Wrong move. The cold water prevented the wound from bleeding and caused complications that almost cost him his hand. So remember, if you are ever bit, do not apply cold, let it bleed freely.