West Virginia has 23 species of snakes. Only the Northern copperhead and Timber rattlesnake are venomous.
Where are rattlesnakes in West Virginia?
Range: This species occurs in West Virginia from the eastern panhandle, through the Alleghenies south to Mingo and Mercer Counties. This distribution is likely a result of the mountainous terrain found in these areas. Comments: The timber rattlesnake is one of the most persecuted animals in the eastern United States.
Are there rattlesnakes in West Virginia?
The timber rattlesnake and copperhead snake are the only two poisonous snakes in West Virginia.
How common are venomous snakes in West Virginia?
Yet, of the 20 species of snakes found in the Mountain State, only two are venomous, the Northern Copperhead and Timber Rattlesnake. Although the majority of venomous snake bites in West Virginia are from copperheads, no fatalities from copperheads have been recorded in over 30 years.
How common are snakes in West Virginia?
Some of West Virginia’s snakes are very common, such as the Eastern Gartersnake and Black Ratsnake, and can be found all over (even in backyards). Others, such as the Cornsnake and Northern Pinesnake, have only been documented a few times over the years. Always be on the lookout in case one shows up in your area.
Are water moccasins in West Virginia?
Copperheads and rattlesnakes are the only venomous snakes found in West Virginia. So if someone told you they saw a cottonmouth, water moccasin, cobra, boa constrictor or python in the wild here, they are full of it.
Where are Copperheads found in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, copperheads favor deciduous forests and rocky outcroppings, but they can be found anywhere. Copperheads feed on small rodents and some insects, including cicada larvae. During the summer, copperheads are nocturnal.
What’s the most common snake in West Virginia?
West Virginia Venommous Snakes
The Timber Rattlesnake pictured is probably the most common species in the United States.
What is the largest snake in West Virginia?
Description: The Black Ratsnake is one of the most common snakes found in West Virginia. It is considered to be the state’s largest serpent. Individuals normally reach an adult size of 4 to 6 feet; however, specimens have been known to exceed 8 feet in length.
Can you hunt rattlesnakes in West Virginia?
Despite their reputation, they pose little danger to humans who keep their distance and do not disturb them. It is illegal to kill any snake in the wild, in West Virginia.
How do I stop snakes from encountering?
One of the most effective ways to survive an encounter with a snake is to not engage. If you come across a snake in your path, walk away. If you can’t turn and go the other direction, make sure to give the snake a wide berth as you circle around it. Remember that most snakes have no desire to be around people.
Are there poisonous spiders in West Virginia?
SPIDERS. There is only one spider in West Virginia that is harmful to humans. This spider is the black widow. Bites from all of the other spiders can result in mild redness and pain.
What bears are in West Virginia?
The American black bear is the only bear known to inhabit West Virginia, and they are not regarded as aggressive in comparison to polar bears and grizzly bears. Unlike polar bears and grizzlies, black bears are typically avoidant of humans rather than aggressive.
What do you do if you get bit by a timber rattlesnake?
First aid for snake bites
- Call 911 immediately.
- Note the time of the bite.
- Keep calm and still as movement can cause the venom to travel more quickly through the body.
- Remove constricting clothing or jewelry because the area surrounding the bite will likely swell.
- Don’t allow the victim to walk.
Are rattlesnakes protected in WV?
JOHN McCOY | Gazette New regulations provide protections for timber rattlesnakes, West Virginia’s official state reptile. Collectors will no longer be able to take as many as they want; the regulations set the annual bag limit at one snake at least 42 inches in length.
Are there alligators in West Virginia?
All of southern West Virginia is buzzing about the big gator found at Upper Mud River Reservoir. The area manager for the Upper Mud River Wildlife Management Area killed the alligator, which measured more than five feet in length after finding the reptile on the banks of the popular fishing water.
Are there wolves in West Virginia?
Species of Mammals
Of the 74 species in West Virginia, 67 are native and seven are non-native. Currently, three formerly occurring species of mammal no longer exist in West Virginia: the bison, mountain lion, and gray wolf.
Are there corn snakes in WV?
Some of West Virginia’s snakes appear to be very rare. The corn snake has only been found in a few locations in the state.
Where do snakes go in the winter in WV?
If a snake needs to warm up, it will go to a warmer place, such as a rock in direct sunlight. If it gets too hot, it will slink away to cool off in the shade of a rock, bush or other kind of cover. Like other reptiles, snakes hibernate during the winter months.
What time of day are Copperheads most active?
Copperheads are most active from the late afternoon into the evening, and prefer cooler areas to hide. They hibernate in the winter, and emerge in the spring for mating season. Their diet consists of small rodents and other pests, so if you have a rodent problem, your property can likely attract these serpents.
Are milk snakes in West Virginia?
Range: This snake is common throughout West Virginia. It is often confused with the copperhead and killed, though it is completely harmless. Comments: Milk snakes will eat other snakes (like most members of the king snake family), though this species feeds mostly on small rodents.
