200 copperhead snake bites in Atlanta this year
Over 200 copperhead snake bites
in metro Atlanta so far this year
Herpetologists at Zoo Atlanta say copperhead snakes are common in metro Atlanta. More than 200 bites have been reported to the Georgia Poison Control so far this year.
“There’s not as much water out there. They’re trying to find water. We’re watering our lawns and we have standing water around and they’re trying to find that,” Dr. Brad Lock of Zoo Atlanta said.
Copperhead snakes often thrive in brushy areas and woodpiles.
Piedmont Hospital has treated six patients for copperhead bites this year. Not all patients need anti-venom but everyone needs quick emergency care, doctors said.
“The best thing to do is call 911. Don’t raise your leg. Don’t lower your leg. Keep it level with your body. Try to remain calm, that will prevent the blood from circulating too quickly,” Dr. Henry Siegelson said.
The best prevention against snake bites can be clearing away brush in your yard and wearing gloves. Don’t stick your hand in a wood pile without checking it first with a rake or shovel. Copperhead bites are rarely deadly but the treatment can be lengthy and expensive. Berk said his treatment included six vials of anti-venom and two nights in the hospital.
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Holte Ender
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Good video Holte. Copperheads are among the least aggressive snakes one can find in the South. Unlike one of their kinfolk the Cottonmouth which is highly territorial and aggressive. It is best to watch where you are stepping and look where you are reaching. Even though a copperhead bite will rarely kill an adult human they can make a person really sick. A cottonmouth can kill you unless you get help immediately. I you are one of the rare few to be unlucky enough to get bitten by the southern Coral Snake you better be next to a hospital with the right anti venom.
I’m not afraid of snakes and have seen lots of copperheads here in Missouri. You just have to be careful not to be careless around them. Very informative.