Use Caution: Venomous Snakes More Active in Dry Alabama Weather

A recent snake bite incident in Etowah County is serving as a reminder for residents to be cautious outdoors, particularly during dry weather when snakes are more likely to be active and searching for water. On Sunday afternoon, Gadsden firefighters responded after a young child was bitten near Noccalula Falls Park. The species of snake was not identified, but the child was treated and is now recovering.

While snake bites are rare and fatalities even rarer, experts caution that certain weather conditions can increase the likelihood of encounters. In Alabama, snakes are most active from late April through September, with hot and dry periods driving them closer to homes, water sources, and residential areas.

Venomous Snakes in Alabama

Alabama is home to 49 species of snakes, but only six are venomous. These include:

• Copperhead – The most common venomous snake in Alabama, recognizable by its copper-colored head and distinctive hourglass-shaped crossbands. Copperheads are found statewide.

• Cottonmouth (Water Moccasin) – A water-loving snake that often reveals the white interior of its mouth when threatened. It is usually seen near rivers, ponds, and other wet habitats.

• Timber Rattlesnake – A large, heavy-bodied rattlesnake with dark crossbands and a black tail.

• Pygmy Rattlesnake – A smaller rattlesnake, most commonly found in southern Alabama.

• Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake – The largest and most dangerous venomous snake in Alabama, known for the diamond-shaped pattern on its back. Found primarily in the southern third of the state.

• Eastern Coral Snake – The most venomous but rarest species in Alabama. Easily identified by its red, yellow, and black bands, this snake prefers to remain hidden.

Copperhead Activity in Dry Weather

Copperheads, the species most frequently encountered by Alabamians, become more active during hot, dry conditions as they seek water. This often brings them closer to homes, ditches, ponds, and even leaky outdoor faucets.

They camouflage well in leaf litter and wooded areas, often remaining still when approached, which can lead to accidental bites if stepped on. During the summer months, copperheads are more likely to be active at night, especially on warm, humid evenings after rainfall.

Habitats where copperheads are most often found include:

• Forested areas such as rocky bluffs and ravines.

• Coastal plains, particularly swamp edges and floodplains.

• Residential areas, including abandoned farms, fencerows, and stream banks.

Identifying and Understanding Venomous Snakes

Descriptions of the six venomous species in Alabama help residents distinguish them from non-venomous snakes:

• Copperhead: Pinkish-buff or orange-brown body with dark crossbands, triangular head, and yellowish to coppery-red top. Most common statewide, averaging 2–3 feet in length.

  

  Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: Olive green to dark brown body with diamond-shaped blotches, diagonal stripes on the head, and a rattle. Found in southern Alabama, it can grow up to 8 feet.

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• Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin: Olive or dark brown body with wide black crossbands, triangular head, and white mouth interior. Usually found near water, reaching up to 6 feet.

  

• Pygmy Rattlesnake: Light gray or tan body with sooty spots and sometimes an orange mid-line stripe. A smaller rattlesnake averaging less than 2 feet.

  

  Timber Rattlesnake: Yellow, gray, or brown body with black chevrons and a rusty stripe down the back. Adults have black tails, averaging 3–4 feet.

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  Eastern Coral Snake: Red, yellow, and black rings encircle the body, with red touching yellow. Found in extreme southern Alabama, averaging 2–3 feet.

Safety and Prevention

Experts emphasize that most snakes, including many non-venomous species, play an important role in the environment, often preying on rodents and even deterring venomous snakes. For safety, snakes should always be left alone.

To reduce the risk of snake encounters:

• Stay aware of surroundings when outdoors, especially in wooded or overgrown areas.

• Avoid placing hands or feet where visibility is limited, such as tall grass or piles of leaves.

• Make noise when walking through brush to alert snakes of your presence.

• Keep pets leashed and supervised.

• Remove brush, trash, and debris from yards where snakes might seek shelter.

• Wear boots and heavy gloves when working outdoors.

• Stick to designated trails while hiking.

If you encounter a snake, the best approach is to give it space and wait for it to move away. If it must be removed, call a professional; many bites occur when people try to capture or kill a snake.

What to Do if Bitten

A bite from any venomous snake should be treated as a medical emergency. Key first-aid steps include:

• Call 911 immediately and seek hospital care.

• Stay calm, keep the affected extremity still and at heart level.

• Remove rings, watches, or tight clothing near the bite site.

• Keep the patient warm and as calm as possible.

• Do not cut the wound, apply a tourniquet, ice, or attempt to suck out the venom.

• If possible, safely take a picture of the snake to aid in treatment.

• Call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for additional guidance.

The Bottom Line

Snake bites in Alabama are uncommon and rarely fatal, but awareness and caution are key to prevention. As dry weather continues across the state, residents should be particularly alert for copperheads and other snakes seeking water. By understanding snake habitats, practicing safe outdoor habits, and knowing what to do in the event of a bite, Alabamians can stay safe while coexisting with the state’s diverse snake population.