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Wildlife officials in Somerset County, New Jersey, have warned residents to be on the lookout for northern copperhead snakes after one was spotted last week in Watchung, a borough less than an hour from New York City.
The northern copperhead, known for its copper or reddish-brown coloring, typically inhabits rocky fields, berry thickets, woodlands, and farmlands, and may even be found in old mulch piles. According to the N.J. Division of Fish and Wildlife, it is one of two venomous snake species in the state.
“There have always been copperheads in the northern half of New Jersey and most people who live in copperhead areas coexist with them without conflict, often without even realizing they are there,” said Tyler Christensen, a PhD candidate studying copperheads at Rutgers University’s Department of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Resources in New Brunswick, New Jersey, according to a Fox News report. “The best thing a resident can do is learn how to tell copperheads apart from more common nonvenomous snake species — such as water snakes, milk snakes and garter snakes — and understand how to respond if they see a copperhead.”
Copperheads are less dangerous than their reputation suggests, according to Christensen, who said in the Fox News reportthat they are typically calm and rely on camouflage rather than venom for defense. Bites are usually a last resort, and their venom is mild compared to other vipers.
“Copperheads are extremely cryptic and can be hard to spot against leaves, brush, and twigs,” explained Scott L. Parker, PhD, from Coastal Carolina University, stating the these snakes blend seamlessly into their surroundings. He advised against touching or approaching copperheads if encountered.
Enjoying Your Long Weekend in New Jersey? Beware of Venomous Copperhead Snakes!https://t.co/TuxMYyqD7Z
— RedState (@RedState) August 31, 2024
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