Western Cottonmouth

As a herpetologist, I have worked with many cottonmouths over the years and far from being aggressive, I would call these guys polite even. The open mouth display is meant to let you know they are there and to please give them their space. They are extremely reluctant to bite unless you are deliberately provoking them. And who could blame them then? Being attacked by an animal much larger than you, seems like a justifiable defense to me. As a professional herpetologist, I want to emphasize that it is never ok to handle any venomous snake. I have special tools that provide for both my safety and that of the snake as well.The last photo shows my friend photographing the snake from a proper and safe distance.