You Can See the World’s Deadliest Snakes in Kentucky

As part of an Appalachian excursion, we once took time to visit tiny, unincorporated Slade, Kentucky, in the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Considering its location and population, there may be more to do in that area than you realize, and that includes taking a close-up look at some of the deadliest snakes on Earth.

Kentucky Reptile Zoo

Not to worry, though. These highly venomous serpents are inside tightly-locked exhibits at the Kentucky Reptile Zoo. We do have four species of venomous snakes native to Kentucky (copperhead, timber rattler, pygmy rattler, cottonmouth), but these zoo inhabitants have a far deadlier venomous payload than our native vipers. That doesn't mean you should be reckless with our poisonous quartet, but you know that.

From the top left, then right, then down, we have here the West African green mamba, the East African green mamba, and the black mamba of southern and eastern Africa. I learned a long time ago that there will always be heavy glass between them and me. Mambas are bad news, but if you're looking for good news, they prefer avoiding human contact. Unless you surprise them (since they like tall grass, it's possible), you'll avoid a potentially fatal encounter.

Kentucky Reptile Zoo Educational Opportunities

When we were there, it was late August, and the field trip schedule was already active; there was a class at the zoo during our visit. It's a wonderful educational opportunity, learning about the benefits of all this deadly venom. In fact, on signs posted to buildings the public cannot enter, you'll find graphics detailing how various snake venoms are converted to medicine.

In addition to a rotating collection of vipers, the Kentucky Reptile Zoo also features lizards, an alligator (although I don't know if there's always one there), and great big tortoises. The zoo is right off the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway, and you access that from Interstate 64, east of Lexington.

It's a fascinating stop, even if you're afraid of snakes. I've always been uncomfortable with snakes, but I'd go back in a heartbeat.