Copperheads

The Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is one of the most common venomous snakes in North Carolina. Key facts include:

Range: Found throughout North Carolina and most of the eastern United States, typically in wooded or mixed habitats.
Activity: Primarily diurnal, but can also be active during dusk and dawn, especially in warmer months.
Peak Activity: Most active in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate; less active during peak summer heat and winter.
Mating: Breeding occurs in spring, with females giving birth to live young in late summer.
Birth: Gestation period is about 3-4 months, with litters ranging from 3 to 18 young.
Social Behavior: Generally solitary outside of mating season; may be found in pairs during breeding.
Diet: Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, and amphibians.
Predators: Natural predators include larger snakes, birds of prey, and mammals like raccoons.

Interesting Facts:

The Copperhead is easily recognizable thanks to its distinctive hourglass patterns on a background that ranges from tan to copper.
They have a unique defensive behavior of flattening their bodies and remaining still, relying on camouflage to avoid detection.
Copperheads are less aggressive compared to other venomous snakes and tend to flee when approached.
Their bite is rarely fatal to humans but can be painful and requires medical attention.

Humans may encounter challenges with Copperhead snakes due to their natural behaviors:

Common Occurrences:

Presence in yards and gardens, particularly in areas with dense foliage or piles of debris.
Unexpected encounters, which can cause alarm but are typically avoidable with awareness.

Uncommon Occurrences:

Snake bites can happen, especially if the snake is stepped on or provoked, but these incidents are relatively rare.
Snakes living in crawlspaces or attics if Copperheads have a food source and shelter.

It's important to note that Copperheads are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid human interaction whenever possible.

Issues with Copperhead snakes can be addressed through various means:

DIY Solutions:

Eliminate attractants: Keep yards clear of debris, tall grass, and wood piles where Copperheads may hide.
Seal entry points: Ensure that access points to homes, such as gaps in walls or around doors, are properly secured.
Create a snake-resistant landscape: Use gravel or mulch to make yards less attractive to Copperheads by limiting places for them to hide.

Professional Wildlife Control: Seek expert assistance for:

Proper species identification to ensure safe handling and removal.
Safe and humane trapping and relocation, especially if a Copperhead is found on your property.
Home inspections to identify entry points and potential habitats that need to be modified to deter snakes.