News Summary
As temperatures rise in Myrtle Beach and Horry County, residents are urged to be vigilant about copperhead snakes. These venomous snakes, although not typically aggressive, can pose risks, especially to pets and children. Recent incidents highlight the importance of caution during outdoor activities. Experts stress awareness, especially during warmer months when snakes become more active. If encountered, staying calm and seeking medical assistance is key. Education on these creatures can help keep families safe while enjoying the beautiful weather.
Beware of Sneaky Copperhead Snakes in Horry County!
Residents of Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas might want to take a little extra caution as warmer weather brings out more than just sunshine and picnics. Yes, we’re talking about the copperhead snake, the most common venomous snake in South Carolina, which is beginning to make its presence felt in local parks and hiking trails.
What’s Happening with the Snakes?
As the temperatures rise, snake activity is ramping up, and folks like Todd Metz from Critter Control of Florence-Myrtle Beach are on alert. He points out that while there hasn’t yet been a significant increase in copperheads around Myrtle Beach or Florence this season, it’s just a matter of time, especially with land clearing occurring around the area.
During spring and summer, these slithery creatures awaken from their winter hibernation and start moving about in search of food and new territory. It’s no surprise that with warm weather, they become more active. Residents might spot them while enjoying a stroll in the local parks or hitting the hiking trails, so it’s essential to keep an eye out.
Usually Not a Threat, but Still Caution Needed
Now, let’s be clear: although copperheads are venomous, they actually play an essential role in our ecosystem by keeping rodent populations in check. Adults typically feed on creatures like frogs, lizards, and small rodents, while the baby copperheads might prefer munching on cicadas. However, this year’s cicada season is projected to have fewer insects than last year, both in South Carolina and neighboring states.
It’s smart to remember that these snakes are primarily nocturnal, particularly as temperatures soar during the summer. So if you’re a night owl taking your dog for a walk, be extra cautious as snakes could be out and about.
The Risks for Pets and Little Ones
A worrying incident recently took place when a dog named Ruger ended up at the emergency vet after a nasty copperhead bite on his nose. This serves as a friendly reminder for pet owners to stay vigilant, especially when walking dogs at night. Distractions like phones can lead to accidents, so take a moment to keep your eyes peeled.
Even children aren’t exempt from these scary encounters. A 2-year-old in Horry County learned this the hard way when he was bitten by a copperhead in his front yard, which landed him in the hospital. After being treated with antivenom, the little guy had to return for more medical attention, leaving his family understandably shaken. His mom is now feeling apprehensive about letting him play outside, which is a sentiment many parents might share in light of recent events.
What To Do If You Encounter a Copperhead
If you happen to cross paths with one of these snakes, don’t panic. Experts recommend staying calm and heading to the hospital as quickly as possible if you or someone else gets bitten. Often, accidental encounters can lead to defensive reactions, making awareness essential for outdoor activities.
In South Carolina, there are six species of venomous snakes, including copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes, so being informed is key. And while it might be tempting to handle a copperhead yourself, doing so is not advisable. It’s always best to call in the professionals for snake removal to keep your home and your family safe.
So, stay alert, enjoy the beautiful weather, and remember that while these slithery neighbors can be quite a concern, a little awareness and caution can go a long way in keeping everyone safe!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Wikipedia: Copperhead
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: copperhead snakes Horry County
- Newsweek
- Encyclopedia Britannica: venomous snakes
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
