4 NJ Hot Spots For Copperhead Snakes

Do you have a fear of snakes? Personally, I don't have a huge issue with snakes, like most animals in the wild; if you ignore them, they'll ignore you. However, snakes are usually one of the top fears people have when it comes to animals.

And I get it, they're slippery serpents that can potentially kill you if bitten, but is Jersey even the native home to any snakes?

New Jersey Is Home To Over 20 Different Types Of Snakes

Believe it or not, yes, Jersey has a rather robust snake population. According to the New Jersey DEP, there are more than 20 different varieties of snakes that live in New Jersey, from water snakes to garter snakes, and everything in between. Don't be surprised if you stumble across a snake on your next hike.

The Eastern Copperhead Is More Common In NJ Than You May Think

One type of snake you could possibly encounter while in Jersey is the Eastern Copperhead Snake. For some reason, people always seem particularly afraid of Copperheads, even though they are more afraid of you than you are of them. Still, getting bitten by a copperhead is probably not on your to-do list.

Copperhead venom isn't particularly deadly, but it can cause severe pain and discomfort if you're bitten.

Where Are Copperhead Snakes Found In New Jersey?

In New Jersey, there are 4 Eastern Copperhead hotbeds, according to World Atlas. You're most likely to encounter these creatures near the Delaware Water Gap, the Sourland Mountain Preserves in Hillsborough Township, Ramapo State Forrest, and the Palisades Interstate Park.

What To Do If You Get Bitten By A Snake?

If you do encounter a Copperhead, and you do somehow get bitten, you should wash the area with warm water and soap, and keep the inflicted area lower than your heart, to try and slow the spread of venom. Of course, you'll want to seek medical attention ASAP as well.