Copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) are probably one of the most beautiful pit vipers in North America, but because they’re so common, they often don’t get the appreciation they deserve. They’re also one of the snakes I get called about the most here in South Carolina, right alongside our harmless rat snakes (Pantherophis so.). Even after relocating hundreds of copperheads over the years, I still enjoy every opportunity to work with them. Copperheads are responsible for more venomous snake bites in South Carolina than any other species, but not because they’re aggressive. In fact, we don’t have any aggressive snake species, only defensive. Most people just lack the ability to distinguish between aggressive vs defensive behavior. The vast majority of bites happen because someone accidentally steps on a copperhead or reaches too close without realizing it’s there. When you think about it, a snake has no arms, no legs, no claws, and no ability to run someone off. If it feels trapped or is suddenly stepped on, its only means of protecting itself is to bite. That’s why giving snakes a little space goes a long way toward preventing conflicts. The good news is that avoiding a bite is usually pretty simple: 🐍 Wear sturdy boots or closed toe shoes when walking through woods, tall grass, or leaf litter. 🔦 Use a flashlight anytime you’re outside after dark so you can see where you’re stepping. 🪵 Never place your hands where you can’t see, such as under logs, landscaping, or wood piles. Thankfully, copperhead venom is considered less medically severe than that of some other North American pit vipers, and fatalities are exceptionally rare. That being said, every venomous snake bite should be treated as a medical emergency. If you’re bitten, seek immediate medical care. In many cases, antivenom is recommended to reduce tissue damage, improve healing, and help preserve the function of the affected limb. Copperheads aren’t out looking for trouble they’re simply trying to survive, just like every other wild animal. The more we understand them, the safer both people and snakes can be. #Copperhead #PitViper #SnakeSafety #VenomousSnakes #SouthCarolinaWildlife - @thatsnakeguy