When venturing outdoors, particularly in wooded areas, it’s crucial to stay alert as there are plenty of insects that can pose a threat. A recent Facebook post by Missouri Wildlife challenged the online community to identify something hidden within a picture of dried foliage, leaving many puzzled and scratching their heads. “This is why you have to watch every step in the woods,” the caption cautioned.
Most users were unable to spot anything in the photo. “They’re just playing a joke on us. There’s no snake there!” one person commented. “The camouflage is incredible! I still haven’t found it, and I usually can!” added another.
But fear not, Missouri Wildlife then shared a second photo, circling the hidden serpent. “Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. But I completely missed it before you circled it!” someone confessed.
The cleverly concealed creature turned out to be a venomous Copperhead snake, one of the most common snakes in North America. While their venom is relatively mild and human fatalities are rare, bites can temporarily damage muscle tissue, affect the circulatory system, and cause respiratory issues. These snakes rely on their sharp fangs to harm their prey, compensating for their lack of potent venom.
However, prompt medical treatment can reverse the effects of a bite.
Copperhead snakes, similar to rattlesnakes and water moccasins, are pit vipers. They possess “heat-sensory pits between the eye and nostril on each side of the head,” allowing them to detect minor temperature variations, enabling precise strikes at heat sources — often potential prey — as explained by Live Science.
Research reveals that out of the 7,000 to 8,000 snake bites that occur across the United States each year, approximately 2,920 of them are from copperheads.
In a recent incident in Fairfax, Virginia, a dog owner discovered three hidden Copperheads in the grass. Thanks to their expertise, experience, and keen eyes, wildlife control representatives from K2C Wildlife Encounters successfully located the elusive snakes. They shared two images of the camouflaged reptiles in the grass, challenging viewers to spot them as well. “We need to add a red hat so we can play ‘Where’s Waldo,’” one person commented. Another photo featured the snakes inside a red bucket.
“Just see what happens when copperheads hide in leaves,” K2C Wildlife Encounters wrote in a Facebook post. “They magically disappear!”
Bonnie Keller, co-founder of K2C Wildlife Encounters, commented on the unjust demonization of snakes in the media. She emphasized that snakes, regardless of the species, are far less likely to harm humans than dogs, horses, cats, or even rabbits.
Keller urged residents in snake-prone areas to educate themselves about local snake species. “Learn how to recognize their appearance and where they are most likely to be found. Knowledge is power.”
If bitten by a snake, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
While snakes play a vital role in the ecosystem, it’s important to give them space and avoid confrontation when encountering them outdoors. If you discover a snake in your home, contact a professional pet service for assistance.
Please share this article with your friends and family on Facebook to raise awareness about safe encounters with snakes.
