Copperhead

Thanks Brendan! It was my 2nd trip there...more herps and warmer weather first time, cooler weather but many more warmer friends this trip (70+ herpers)!

Tinky, I will quote your post and respond: "Yes, these snakes do want to be left alone but do not expect them to flee from you. " This is true. Their main means of defense is to try and blend in with the habitat so you do not see them, even when you are standing right over them they will try this first. "Copperheads will lie still until you are upon them and then they will strike." That is false information. they ONLY strike when they feel threatened. I am a herpetologist (a biologist who works with reptiles and amphibians) and rarely see them strike even when being manipulated with a snake hook. That does not mean to be reckless around them! With regard to the 'dry' bite, that's usually the second bite." That is false information. You can get a dry bite from any of them. It depends on whether they are young or older, how much of a direct threat you are (e.g. stepping directly upon them or grabbing them as opposed to stepping nearby them) and when they have eaten last. "Their bites are very painful and although death from a copperhead bite is not common, if you happen to be allergic to their venom they are extremely deadly." Death by copperhead bite is not just uncommon...it is extremely rare (fewer than a half dozen). And yes, if you are allergic to the venom (another rarity), it can be deadly, but so can eating shrimp. "Just please wear proper footwear (boots) and keep a respectful distance if you come upon one." Agreed. Always observe venomous species from a safe distance.

And that is the best way to treat them...a little space and respect. They really just want to be left alone!

The venom of the copperhead is relatively mild when compared to other venomous snakes. Very few deaths have ever been recorded from copperhead bites and there were other medical conditions that contributed to those deaths. They rarely even administer antivenom for a copperhead bite as it is usually not needed!

Thanks Karen! I can't wait to see yours too! Gylma, The venom composition is the same as the adults. They do not make as much as a large adult but they do not have the control of an adult. So if you are bitten by an adult, you may not get any venom injected at all. If you get bitten by a juvenile, you are likely to get all it has to give. Approximately, 50% of bites are 'dry' bites.