American herpetologists are quick to say that no American venomous snakes are aggressive. That may be, but I've encountered a few big, rusty cottonmouths that had serious anger management issues. They don't try to get in the bateau with you because they are wanting to be friends. We've broken a few fine, handmade cypress paddles upon bringing them to bear edgewise across the backs of big, swimming cottonmouths alongside the boat. I doubt they eat many mice in the creeks and sloughs, either..

May God bless America and those who defend her.