Obviously I survived the ordeal, but I learned a few things in the process I thought I would share with any other Oklahoman’s who might find themselves in a similar situation:
1. Just because they are small does not mean they are not mighty. Baby Copperheads can potentially be more dangerous than the larger ones. When they are young they have not yet learned to regulate their poison when they penetrate flesh, causing a toxic and extremely dangerous dump into their victim. Please do not see a small snake and think you are safe.
2. It is rare to see just one Copperhead. So if you see one there is a good chance another one is lurking nearby. If you encountered a snake in your home and had it removed that does not mean that you and your family are now out of danger.
3. While Copperheads are generally not terribly aggressive, they will strike when feeling threatened. These snakes have a striking distance of 1/2 to 1/3 of their body length and before strike you will see the snake move it’s tail back and forth. They are generally 2-3 feet in length but can be up to 40 inches long.
4.Seek medical attention if bit. While not usually deadly, Copperhead bites are painful (like right up there with childbirth and kidney stone painful). They are also expensive. An Antivenin course will generally cost around $30,000 so not exactly pocket change for most people. Reconstructive surgery may also be necessary as the venom does cause swelling and soft tissue damage, swelling around digits may lead to amputation.
Overall if you see a Copperhead around your home you will probably live to tell about it, but a little caution can save you a lot of pain and a whole lot of money. As always Flatline is here for all of your pest control needs!