Copperheads: What are the Risks?

Copperheads are some of the most feared snakes in the South. Luckily, they are also one of the most misidentified, as they look a lot like northern water snakes. These pit vipers are venomous and one of the most likely snakes to bite you. This is because their natural instincts when they see someone coming is to freeze up, which makes them easy to step on. Since they are venomous, these snakes are risky neighbors. Copperhead snake removal can be tricky. Working with a professional is one of the best ways to make sure that you stay safe.

Copperheads get their name from the reddish, diamond-shaped head they have. It is a different shade than the brown, patterned back. The heat-seeking pits that they and other pit vipers have are located under their eyes. Copperhead snakes are voracious rodent eaters. If you have a lot of rats or mice, they are a tasty temptation for these snakes.

Copperhead like damp, marshy areas and hide under debris. You can find them by rivers or marshes under wood and leaves. In your yard, this can be under a porch or crawl space, in a woodpile, or in sheds and outbuildings. They don’t breed every year, but when they do it is in litters of 10-20. Bites are painful but rarely have a full dose of venom. Hospitalization is common with bites.

Copperhead snake removal is best left to professionals for several reasons. Professionals will use a combination of trapping and exclusionary techniques. They can help find evidence of how many snakes are in the area, what might be drawing them, and how to prevent future infestations.