Yikes! Watch out for copperheads; increased sightings in Fairfax County
There have been a lot more copperhead sighting this spring than usual, reports Fairfax County wildlife biologist Vicky Monroe. At least three people have been bitten by the highly venomous snakes, including one man in Reston who was hospitalized for four days. Other people have been bitten by copperheads in Clifton and in Riverbend Park in Great Falls. Monroe doesn’t think there are more copperheads in Fairfax County this spring; it’s just that they appear to have gotten active earlier in the season, due to the cold winter followed by an early hot spell in March. Usually, copperhead sightings aren’t common until August. Monroe doesn’t know if any of the sightings were in Annandale or Mason District parks, but says they have been spotted all over the county. Copperheads are one of three species of poisonous snakes native to the area, along with the Timber Rattlesnake and Cottonmouth.
Snakebites are rarely fatal in Virginia, a county news release states. They can cause swelling and bruising, sweating, weakness, nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching, and a metallic taste in the mouth. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you or your pets are bitten. Keep the affected body part immobilized and at the same level as the heart, and do not apply a tourniquet.
The county advises county residents to never pick up a snake. Among other safety tips:
- Keep grass and vegetation mowed short on private property; snakes like to hunt in tall grass.
- Stay on the sidewalk and park trails.
- Supervise children at all times.
- Do not approach a copperhead.
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times.
- Do not overturn rocks or logs.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing outdoors.
3 responses to “Yikes! Watch out for copperheads; increased sightings in Fairfax County”
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my dad is a snake
I was at Royal Lake on Tuesday and saw the skin of a Copperhead that looked newly shed. They're BACK! Be careful especially around the local creeks in the parks and underbrush.
I don't believe that cottonmouths are native to this area. I think they are southeastern tidewater area. The other two, however, apparently make FFX their home.