Skinning a Snake

Snake skin tacked to a table.

Skinning a snake is a necessary part of preparing it for consumption. Whether you plan to eat the snake or want the skin for another purpose, knowing how to properly skin a snake can prevent the meat and skin from becoming damaged.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp knife

Instructions

Skinning a Snake

1. Remove the head by cutting it off carefully with your knife. Handle the head with care if your snake is poisonous, as the fangs will contain venom even after the snake has died. Place the head into a container to reduce the risk of coming into contact with the fangs while you work. Even if your snake is not poisonous, the fangs can cause a puncture wound that can potentially become infected.

2. Wash the snake in warm, soapy water. Gently rub down the length of the snake with soapy hands, and then rinse well with running water. Thoroughly washing the snake is especially important if you intend to eat the meat.

3. Make a straight, shallow cut with your knife down the centerline of the snake's underside. The cut should reach from the top of the snake's body, or where the head was removed, to the base of the tail.

4. Separate the skin from the snake's flesh. Beginning at the head end of the snake, gently pull the skin loose from the membrane underneath. Work your way down the body, using gentle, even pressure, until you have reached the tail. If the skin appears stuck in one area, gently work your knife between the skin and flesh to loosen it.

5. Rinse the skin and snake in cool, running water to remove any remaining blood. Use care when handling the skin to prevent tears.

Tips & Warnings

• Another method of skinning a snake involves making a single, shallow cut near the head of the snake. The skin can be then removed whole by pulling the skin downward in a motion similar to removing a sock from your foot.