Copperheads on the rise in Ohio right now. Here’s why & how to stay safe, experts say
Late summer brings heat to Ohio and as if we didn’t already have enough to battle outdoors, there’s one critter that is surging even more now.
Copperheads can be seen in most parts of the state during the summer months and into early fall because it is mating season for the critters.
Here’s what else to know about copperheads in Ohio:
What copperheads look like
Copperheads have dark brown and tan bodies, allowing them to easily blend in with leaves, trees and bushes. The snakes are thick and have hourglass or ‘Hershey’s Kiss’ shapes down their bodies.
Copperheads also have a golden or coppery-colored head, which makes it distinctly stand out from other snakes.
Why copperheads are on the rise right now
While hot weather and mating season are huge factors in more copperhead sightings, there are also a number of other reasons why they are on the rise right now.
A copperhead’s habitat is pretty much anywhere and in Ohio, there are plenty of wooded areas and bodies of water for copperheads to hide and thrive.
However, other than the climate, National Geographic experts say humans are to blame for excessive snake encounters as well as increased recorded bites among children.
“Experts have speculated that human-created conditions like habitat loss, urbanization and climate change have pushed venomous snakes into suburbs and farther north,” said Sarah Gibbens with National Geographic.
In addition, things like construction and deforestation cause snakes to move into more human-populated areas like newly constructed subdivisions with creeks.
Pest Control experts also noted that rodent populations as well as certain landscaping components such as woodpiles or decorative water features attract snakes.
What to do if bitten by a copperhead
Here’s what to do and not do, according to the Mayo Clinic:
DO the following:
- Move far away from the snake.
- Stay still and calm.
- Remove any jewelry, watches or tight clothing before swelling starts.
- Sit or lie down so that the bite is in a neutral, comfortable position.
- Clean the bite with soap and water. Cover or wrap it loosely with a clean, dry bandage.
DON’T do this:
- DO NOT pick up the snake or try to trap it
- DO NOT apply a tourniquest or attempt to restrict blookd blow to the affected area
- DO NOT cut the wound
- DO NOT attempt to suck out the venom
- DO NOT apply heat, cold, electricity or any substance to the bite
- DO NOT drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages
- DO NOT take any drugs or medicines
Tips to stay safe from copperheads
If you encounter a copperhead while out or on your own property, the most important thing is to stay calm. Call your local animal control center if you think the snake is venomous
Here are tips to keep copperheads out of your yard:
- Keep grass trimmed low and bushes pruned
- Remove woodpiles, rock piles, and debris
- Repair holes in foundations, vents, and walls
- Get rid of rodents — fast
Have other questions? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
