Copperheads are a common presence across North Carolina, frequently encountered by residents. These venomous snakes are generally reclusive and prefer to avoid human interactions. Understanding their characteristics and behaviors is important for safety and awareness.
Recognizing a Copperhead
Copperheads are identifiable by distinct physical features. Their bodies display a background color ranging from light brown, tan, or coppery to grayish or pinkish-tan. Over this base color, they possess strongly contrasting chestnut brown crossbands shaped like an hourglass or dumbbell, appearing narrow in the center of the back and wider along the sides. This unique pattern is often described as resembling “Hershey’s Kisses.”
The head of a copperhead is typically a coppery brown, triangular, and distinct from its neck, accommodating venom glands. They have vertical, elliptical pupils, similar to a cat’s eye, and possess heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils. Adult copperheads measure 2 to 3 feet long with a stout body. Young copperheads are born with a similar pattern but often have a bright yellow or greenish-yellow tail tip, which fades as they mature.
Common Habitats in North Carolina
Copperheads are highly adaptable, inhabiting various environments in North Carolina, from the mountains to the coastal plain. They are frequently found in wooded areas, forest edges, and rocky outcrops, providing cover and basking opportunities. These snakes are quite tolerant of human development and can be present in suburban and urban areas, especially those with mature landscaping.
Residential areas with abundant vegetation, woodpiles, or debris offer suitable shelter and food sources for copperheads. They may utilize old sawdust piles, trash dumps, and dilapidated buildings as hiding spots. Copperheads can be active day or night, but are more nocturnal in hot weather, often encountered on roads during cooler evening hours.
What to Do if You See a Copperhead
Encountering a copperhead can be startling, but staying calm is important for safety. If you see one, keep a safe distance of at least 6 feet. Do not attempt to handle, capture, or kill the snake, as most bites occur when people interact with them. Slowly back away from the snake, allowing it space to move away on its own.
If a bite occurs, seek immediate medical attention by going to an emergency department. While awaiting medical care:
Gently wash the bite area with soap and water.
Remove any rings, watches, or constrictive clothing or jewelry near the affected limb before swelling begins.
Keep the bitten area still and, if possible, elevate it to heart level.
Contact NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.
Do not apply ice, use a tourniquet, or attempt to cut or suck the venom from the wound.
Minimizing Encounters
Taking proactive steps around your property can reduce the likelihood of encountering copperheads.
Property Maintenance
Regular yard maintenance is effective. Clear away leaf litter, tall grass, and dense vegetation where snakes might hide. Remove or neatly stack woodpiles, brush piles, and other debris away from your home, as these provide ideal shelter for snakes and their prey. Seal gaps in foundations and around pipes to prevent snakes from entering structures.
Outdoor Safety
When outdoors, especially in areas with potential snake habitat, wear appropriate footwear like closed-toe shoes or boots. Wear gloves when gardening or reaching into bushes. Inspect areas before placing your hands or feet, such as under logs or rocks. Eliminating food sources like rodents can also make your property less appealing to snakes, as they are drawn to areas with available prey.