Finding a snake in your garden—or worse, your basement—is a heart-stopping moment for most Louisville homeowners. The immediate question is always: “Is it poisonous?” (Technically, snakes are venomous, not poisonous, but we know what you mean!)

Kentucky is home to over 30 species of snakes, but only four are venomous. In the Louisville metro area, you really only need to worry about one: the Copperhead.

While Timber Rattlesnakes exist in Kentucky, they are rare in the metro area. Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins) are found in Western Kentucky swamps, not Louisville. The Copperhead, however, thrives in the wooded suburbs of Jefferson, Oldham, and Bullitt counties.

Here is a guide to identifying the Copperhead and distinguishing it from its harmless look-alikes.

Identifying a Copperhead

Copperheads are masters of camouflage. Their coloring allows them to disappear into dead leaves and mulch, which is why most bites occur when people accidentally step on them or reach into a bush without looking.

• The Pattern: This is the #1 identifier. Copperheads have a pattern of dark brown hourglass shapes on a tan/copper body. The bands are wide on the sides of the snake and narrow in the middle of the back. (Think of a Hershey’s Kiss viewed from the side).
• The Head: They have a broad, triangular, arrow-shaped head that is distinct from the neck. The top of the head is a solid copper color with no markings.
• The Eyes: They have vertical, cat-like pupils (though you shouldn’t get close enough to check!).
• The Tail: Young copperheads have a bright yellow or green tail tip, which they wiggle to lure prey.

The Look-Alikes (Harmless)

Many harmless snakes are killed because they are mistaken for Copperheads.

1. Northern Water Snake

Found near creeks and ponds (like Floyd’s Fork or the Ohio River).

• Difference: Their bands are often broken or mismatched on the back, not perfect hourglasses. They have round pupils. They are aggressive if cornered but non-venomous.

2. Gray Ratsnake (Juvenile)

Young ratsnakes have gray bodies with dark blotches.

• Difference: The blotches are square or irregular, not hourglass-shaped. They are excellent climbers (Copperheads rarely climb trees).

3. Eastern Milk Snake

• Difference: They have reddish blotches outlined in black. The pattern is more of a saddle shape than an hourglass.

Safety Tips for Homeowners

1. Watch Your Step: Never step over a log or rock without looking on the other side.
2. Don’t Touch: 80% of snake bites happen when people try to kill or capture the snake. A dead snake can still bite due to muscle reflexes.
3. Garden Carefully: Wear gloves and long sleeves when reaching into ivy, brush piles, or mulch beds.
4. Water Hose: If a snake is on your patio, spraying it gently with a garden hose is a safe, effective way to encourage it to move along from a distance.

What To Do If Bitten

If you or a family member is bitten:

1. Stay Calm: Keep your heart rate down to slow the spread of venom.
2. Remove Jewelry: Remove rings and watches immediately, as swelling will occur rapidly.
3. Seek Medical Help: Go to the nearest emergency room. Do not try to suck out the venom or use a tourniquet.
4. Do Not Catch the Snake: A photo is helpful for doctors, but do not risk a second bite trying to catch it.

When to Call a Professional

If a snake is inside your home, garage, or posing a threat in your yard, call Critter Removal of Louisville. We have the specialized tongs and containers to safely capture and relocate the animal without harm to you or the snake.