Frequently Asked Questions

Do Copperheads breed with other non-venomous snakes?

• No. There is no scientific evidence to date that shows copperheads breeding with other non-venomous snake species.

Can copperheads control their venom yield? 

• Yes.  Both adults and babies have the ability to regulate the amount of venom when they bite.

Are baby copperheads more dangerous than adults?

• From a venom perceptive, adults are more dangerous as they have larger venom glands and capable of delivering a larger dose of venom when they bite. 

• From a size perceptive, babies are very small and hard to see, so when gardening or walking barefooted outside, a large percent of people are bitten because they weren't able to see the snake.  

Is it illegal to kill a snake in the state of Virginia?

• Yes.  It is illegal to kill any snake in the state of Virginia.

If I find a snake shed on my property, do I have a snake infestation?

• No.  Snakes shed their skins often and sometimes leave it in your yard, barn or garage, but finding a snakeskin doesn't necessarily mean you have an infestation. If you have concerns, please contact K2C for a property inspection.  

Do snakes chase people?

• No. Snakes are actually afraid of people and will retreat as their first option. 

Here are some links to some articles that we think can also answer some of your questions.

• Why are there snakes in my yard?
  Coexisting with Wild Snakes by Mike Ban Valen, Founder of Wild Snakes: Education and Discussion

• How do I "make sure" there are no snakes on my property?
  While that isn't possible, you can make your yard less attractive to prey and predators alike, especially snakes.
  Keeping Snakes Away: Advice for a Wildlife Biologist by Christopher E. Smith, FieldEcology.com