Fluffy snow fell in parts of the Charlotte metro on Thursday, adding to icy conditions caused by the historic winter storm. All 100 counties in North Carolina last week.
Temperatures are slowly rising across the state, so it’s worth keeping winter coats and gloves nearby. But have you ever wondered where snakes go when the weather gets cold?
We are particularly curious copperhead snakeAccording to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, this is the “most common and widespread” venomous snake in the Tar Heel State.
The Charlotte Observer asked local wildlife experts about the situation:
Do copperhead snakes hibernate?
Copperheads and other reptiles Brumatthe Charlotte Observer previously reported.
Like hibernation, this period of dormancy is characterized by lethargy and decreased appetite during the colder months, according to Nationwide Pet Insurance Company. Their breathing rate also slows, as does digestion.
Like most North American vipers, copperheads prefer to avoid humans and, given the opportunity, will leave human-inhabited areas without incident, according to the National Park Service.
Falyn Owens, an extension biologist with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, previously told the Observer: “Snakes and reptiles are very dependent on temperature…so the colder it is, the slower they go.”
Bruises usually occur on 40 degrees and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
“If the temperature drops below a certain threshold, they basically become very sluggish,” Owens said. “If it’s really cold, they almost shut down completely.”
However, bruising is not as deep as hibernation, and Once the temperature warms up, the snakes will come out.
Where do copperheads go when it’s cold?
In very cold temperatures, snakes often Shelter in an isolation environment to protect yourself from the elements.
“Species like copperheads may find stump holes where trees are rotting,” Owens previously told the Observer. “They may crawl into them to escape wind, snow and extreme temperatures.”
Other common hiding places include:
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under leaf litter or logs
Owens points out that snakes typically don’t dig their own burrows, but instead occupy spaces dug by other animals.
What does a copperhead snake look like?
According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, copperhead snakes are big and thick and with its unique Keeled copper-colored scales.
While their heads are unmarked, hourglass-like brown crossbands can be seen along the snake’s body. Experts say wider parts of the shape are visible on the sides, while the copperhead has narrower parts on its back and tailbone. The pattern is often thought to resemble a Hershey’s kiss, The Observer previously reported.
Copperheads are the “most common and widespread” venomous snake in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
Young copperheads may be gray in color with a yellow tail tip, though this coloring usually fades over time, according to the Smithsonian Institution.
What to do if bitten by a copperhead (or other venomous snake)
Although rare, copperheads can bite if not handled properly or if they feel threatened. If you are bitten, remember:
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Sit back and stay calm.
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Wash the wound with warm soapy water.
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Remove any jewelry or tight clothing.
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Keep the affected area still and, if possible, elevate it to the level of your heart.
Portions of this story were previously published in The Charlotte Observer.
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