Copperhead Snakes

When it's summer you can be the Copperhead snakes come out of hibernation. These poisonous snakes are located in mostly the Eastern United states. They can be found in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, through Florida and North Carolina all the way up to Massachusetts.They are not easily detected with their camouflage and they are quiet as they slither through the area.

While Copperheads are one of the best known poisonous snakes their camouflage is perfect for the area's they habitat. They can blend in well with the environment making it hard to see them. But they can be recognized by their triangle head, and copper bands blended with white and brownish color bands, which can blend in well on the ground. They can grow to 2 to 3 feet long as adults. The baby copperheads resemble full grown adults, but have yellow on their tails.

While Copperhead snakes can be found anywhere they are mostly found in places with high grass, vines, and trash. But that doesn't mean that they can't be found in forests, well cut yards, or other unusual places like a garage, and porches. Since they are very well camouflage that its easy to step on them or to get too close to them because they freeze and stay very still when danger is near, they will only attack as the last option that they have. This is one reason it is easy to see why so many people are bitten by them. If you walk upon a copperhead snake, the best thing is to stop, let them get some distance from you usually they will move from you if you stand still. This snake is not aggressive, but will not hesitate to attack if they feel danger is near, or they feel their life is threatened.

Copperhead snakes are the most common type of snake bites, typically these bites while very painful are not deadly, but many times their venom will kill small animals, and cause serious damage to humans. The bites are very painful and will cause tissue damage over time if not treated. Sometimes if left untreated hospitalization will be necessary to surgically remove the damaged tissue. It is important to always seek medical treatment after being bitten by a Copperhead snake. The venom dangerous and it will cause damage with the tissue surrounding the bite site. If you get bit it is highly advised that you get immediate medical attention.

North Carolina is one state is seeing a rise in Copperhead snake bites. They are seeing one to two cases per week in the emergency rooms or doctor offices as a result of copperhead snakebite. Sometimes you may not know that you were bite by a snake, some symptoms are fang marks, and puncture marks and redness and swelling around the bite. These snakes can bite quickly and without you noticing it. Other symptoms are nausea and vomiting, sweating, and pain around the bite. Most bites are very painful within 5-10 minutes and start swelling. What you should do after being bitten by a snake, is wash the bite with soap and water, and go to the doctors or hospital.

The best way to prevent a snake bite is to stay away from the snake, which is usually easier said than done. Learn what the snakes in your area look like and which ones are dangerous, and stay clear of them. Mostly snakes with triangle heads are poisonous. If you must work outside in snake infested area, wear good heavy boots, jeans, and gloves to protect yourself from snake bites.

Snake Bites and Dogs:

Dogs can be bitten by snakes and they will not be able to let you know. Learn the signs to watch for your dog for snake bites in the area. This is especially true if you have a dog with thick fur. You may not see the snake bite but you will be able to take them to the vets for medical treatment if you know what symptoms that you are watching for. The only symptom that my dog had when she was bit was she swelled up and was having trouble breathing. I probably could of gotten her assistance sooner if I had only know the symptoms to look for.