Copperhead snakes are common venomous reptiles found across various regions, particularly in the eastern and central United States. Encountering one can be alarming, but understanding how to react can help ensure safety for both people and pets. Knowing how to identify these snakes and what steps to take during an encounter is important for public safety.
How to Identify a Copperhead
Recognizing a copperhead from a safe distance is the first step in ensuring safety. These snakes display a distinctive banding pattern resembling an hourglass or a “Hershey’s Kiss” shape when viewed from above. The lighter background color is often tan or pinkish, while the darker bands are reddish-brown or copper-colored, providing effective camouflage in leaf litter. Their heads are notably wider than their necks, giving them a somewhat triangular appearance, a common characteristic among many venomous snakes.
Another feature of copperheads, shared with other pit vipers, is their vertical, slit-like pupils, similar to a cat’s. However, confirming pupil shape requires getting dangerously close to the snake. Copperheads are medium-sized snakes, generally ranging from 2 to 3 feet in length, though some individuals may be larger.
What to Do Immediately
If you encounter a copperhead, the most important action is to maintain a safe distance. Copperheads are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation, often remaining still to blend into their surroundings. Slowly and calmly back away from the snake, ensuring you give it ample space to move away if it chooses. Never attempt to touch, handle, harass, or kill a copperhead, as this is when most bites occur.
If the snake is in an area of concern, like a doorway or path, observe its location from a distance to ensure it moves away or to inform others. Keep children and pets away from the area until the snake has left or has been safely relocated by a professional.
What to Do After a Bite
Should a copperhead bite occur, staying calm is important. Immediately move away from the snake to prevent further bites. Gently wash the bite area with soap and water to clean the wound. Remove any jewelry, watches, or tight clothing from the bitten limb, as swelling can occur rapidly and constrict circulation.
It is important to seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest hospital. Transport to a medical facility should be as quick as possible. Do not attempt to cut the wound, suck out the venom, apply a tourniquet, or use ice on the bite, as these actions are ineffective and can cause more harm. Medical professionals will assess the bite and determine the appropriate course of treatment, which may include antivenom in severe cases, though copperhead bites are rarely fatal.
Keeping Copperheads Away
Proactive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of copperhead encounters around your home. Maintaining a tidy yard is a primary deterrent. Regularly mow your lawn, remove leaf litter, and clear away brush piles, woodpiles, and rock piles, as these provide ideal hiding spots for snakes and their prey. Copperheads are also attracted to areas with rodents, so managing rodent populations can help.
Seal any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation and ensure screens on windows and doors are intact. Keeping garage doors closed also prevents snakes from entering enclosed spaces. When spending time outdoors, especially in areas with dense vegetation, tall grass, or rocky outcrops, remain aware of your surroundings and watch where you step.