Another way to invite snake bite is to thoughtlessly turn over a log with bare hands or to step over one without first looking to see whether a snake is coiled on the other side. Many snakes, particularly the copperhead and coral snake, are fond of hiding beneath or within decaying logs, as any snake collector will testify, and such a log is at all times to be considered a potential snake den. If a log must be moved, use a long stick as a pry-bar. Stepping over a log will be less risky if boots or high-top shoes are worn, but even then it is safer to see first what is on the other side. Several types of footwear offer good protection against the bites of most snakes. Especially effective are high-top leather shoes, riding boots, rubber boots or a combination of army “paratrooper shoes” and heavy leather puttees. Probably the best of these is a snakeproof boot made of extra heavy bullhide leather, sold by the Gokey Company, 94 East 4th Street, St. Paul, Minnesota. For protection of the legs above the knees, snakeproof pants that weigh little more than ordinary duck trousers are available. They consist of three thicknesses of duck material and one layer of fine wire mesh, flexible enough to allow easy knee movement. Snakeproof leggings of similar material can be purchased for safeguarding just the lower legs. Recently marketed aluminum leggings furnish good protection in many cases, but some brands tested were too thin and easily damaged; others were too uncomfortable. If a poisonous snake is discovered close by, the best protection is to remain as still as possible until the snake has moved away. It should be remembered that a snake is quick to strike at a moving object, so to quickly step away at such a moment may be disastrous. If a rattlesnake is heard nearby but cannot be located, do not begin a wild dash for safety. Location of the snake may be misjudged and by taking a step you are likely to walk into, rather than away from, it. Again, remain still until the snake is sighted and, when it is certain the snake is at least five or six feet away and no others are nearby, slowly back away. If you must move away, do so as slowly as possible. Because our native poisonous snakes are mostly nocturnal in their activities, remaining hidden during the day and emerging at night in search of food, a flashlight should be used by persons who find it necessary to travel through snake country after dark. During the cool days of spring and autumn, however, nocturnal habits are often reversed. During the day snakes search for warm spots in which to sun themselves; by nightfall they are again under cover.