(06-19-2020, 08:31 PM)Jags Wrote:

(06-17-2020, 09:02 PM)rollerjag Wrote: I haven't "walked" around my property in decades, but folks here that hike in the woods typically just carry a long stick. Stir up the ground in front of you if it looks suspicious, they either scatter or you know to move around. I have no issue with shooting them, especially around residences, but it's seldom necessary. Did you feel threatened perched up on your Z-turn?

I’ve seen and have walked with many people that use a “stick”.  Those are the guys that aren’t afraid of snakes yet don’t want the poisonous ones around their pets or kids.  I personally am terrified of snakes.  I will NEVER kill a non-poisonous snake.  Venomous ones are fair game.  I’ve had one dog die due to a bite from a moccasin.  Even after medical care.  So my children are even more protected.  Much like a “nuisance” alligator”. Sure they are removed and transplanted.  But snakes really do scare the [BLEEP] out of me.  I can’t even watch them on tv.  And if I’m tv they “bite at the camera”. I need to close my eyes or I’ll have a heart attack.  So a poisonous snake in my yard will get the shovel or the .410 depending on the size.  As far as feeling safe on a ztr...   usually i so feel safe.  But there have been many occasions I haven’t.   I have been chased down by moccasins.  With and without a firearm on me.  If you’re insinuating I run the [BLEEP] over... no.  I need to change and sharpen my blades.  I don’t want to run upon their guts and what not while doing so.  Have I ran some over? Yes man at times.  Countless times in fact.  But I never knew they were there.

Your fear of snakes moves the discussion to a new level. I have a healthy respect for them, but no real fear. No, I didn't mean to insinuate you'd mow them down, I'm just surprised you'd feel threatened while on your mower. Now I know why.

My grandfather and dad farmed this property since the mid 1940s and neither carried a gun while working. They both owned guns, my dad more than his, but they never carried them on their person or in their vehicles. 

When I was a teen I was fishing near the bank of a nearby reservoir when a Copperhead coiled up my line incredibly fast. I just tossed the rod into the water. Its owner, my cousin, was not pleased.

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