Here’s Where Copperhead Snakes Go When It Gets Cold In North Carolina
Oh my goodness I was just wondering what the answer is to this question. Where do copperhead snakes go when it gets cold in North Carolina? We literally live in the middle of the woods and often take our dogs for walks off leash. Should we worry about copperhead bites less in cold weather? Well, yes and no.
Here’s Where Copperhead Snakes Go When It Gets Cold In NC
No matter the time of year. These are the best practices to keep yourself safe from copperhead snakes in North Carolina. This is directly from our source, the charlotteobserver.com, “Keep a sharp eye open for snakes while outside. Watch where you step (especially when wearing sandals or flip-flops). Wear gloves when reaching into weeds, bushes or pine straw. Keep a much closer watch on nosy dogs who might poke their snouts into spots where copperheads like to rest. If you see one, leave it alone.”
Copperhead Snakes Do Not Hibernate
The North Carolina Wildlife Commission answers my question about do copperhead snakes hibernate? Snakes do not hibernate! But what they do is brumate. Brumation is similar to hibernation but the creature does not fall into a deep deep sleep. And may still be active.
Wildlife experts give these guidelines in the Charlotte Observer story, “That’s why whenever the temperature is over 60˚F, snakes can be active, even if it’s in the dead of winter. It’s also why between about 50˚ and 60˚F, snakes can be active but are usually sluggish,” So, right now with temperatures in the 20s, those snakes are going to be moving pretty slowly if at all. Still be vigilant. Just leave him alone and go about your business.
Snakes like to brumate as individuals and like to do it in holes. You might find them in stump holes or rodent burrows. For more information about copperhead snakes and their winter time habits, get details from our excellent source right here.