Spring is a beautiful time of year in West Virginia, and we love to get out and hike before the summer heat hits. But so do a few other creatures, including venomous snakes.
Copperheads are one of two venomous snakes found in West Virginia.
During the summer, copperheads are nocturnal. During the winter, they hibernate. But in spring and fall, they are most active during the daylight hours.
However, rather than slithering away like some snakes, they lie still and hope to remain undiscovered. This means you are more likely to step on a copperhead than some other types of snakes. Even then, they are hesitant to strike and only do so when touched or disturbed.
When a copperhead does bite, it's rarely fatal, even in children.
Most initial bites from a copperhead are "dry bites" meaning no venom is injected, or "warning bites," meaning only a small amount is. Even if a person or pet receives a full dose of venom, hospitals in our area are typically well equipped to offer treatment. If you've been bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Take a picture of the snake if possible and remove any restrictive clothing (or collars from pets) immediately.
Copperheads have a bad reputation, but they are actually amazing creatures.
Their venom has even been used to successfully combat cancer in lab studies! Still, watch your step when you're out in the woods, and wear sturdy hiking boots on our mountain trails.
If you do see a copperhead, give it a wide berth and continue on your way. They are an important part of the ecosystem, and you actually put yourself at greater risk of harm by coming close enough to eliminate one. To minimize the risk of encountering one at all, stay on wide, well-marked trails.
