Officials: Midlands Snake Bite No Cause for Concern

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — South Carolina Department of Natural Resources officials say venomous bites from copperhead snakes are ‘very rare’ and people in the Midlands should not be overly concerned. Of the 38 species of snakes in the state, six of them are venomous, including the copperhead. According to DNR herpetologist, Will Dillman, the copperhead is the least toxic. That’s the first thing he wants people to know. “It’s not something people need to go around and be really scared of or terrified they will run into a snake and that the snake will be venomous,” said Dillman. He claims a May sixth incident where a City of Columbia parking enforcement monitor was bitten by a copperhead while on the job is no cause for alarm. “Snakes rely on camouflage, trying to hide. They don’t like to be seen,” said Dillman. City officials say while the snake has not been caught, the employee was given anti-venom serum and is expected to make a full recovery. The incident, which occurred near the intersection of Washington and Sumter streets raises concerns about South Carolina heat and the reptiles it brings. However, the wildlife and freshwater fisheries expert claims the copperhead is the most venomous of the state’s snakes, but is the least toxic. That’s good news for the victim and anyone else who may encounter one. “If you’re bitten by a snake and you don’t know what it is, seek medical attention quickly. Most bites occur when people decide to interact with a snake. The best way to not get bitten is not to engage a snake.” For more information on the copperhead and the nearly 40 species of snakes in South Carolina, go to www.dnr.sc.gov/wildlife.