Watch This Indiana Man’s Close Encounter with a Copperhead Snake

A fella named Jim was just strolling down a gravel path in Brown County, Indiana, when he noticed something up ahead on the road. Jim whipped out his phone to document this encounter. It’s a good thing he did, because what he saw was a copperhead – one of four venomous snakes found in Indiana.

Watch the Copperhead Video for Yourself - Try Not to Flinch

Jim shared his video on the Indiana Wildlife Facebook page. It’s a short clip with a fun little surprise at the end. I’ll give you a chance to give it a watch before we go any further.

So, it appears as though Jim knew right away that his new friend was a copperhead, which likely kept him safe from a bite. Would you recognize a copperhead out in the wild? Hopefully, this article will help in case you ever come across one.

ALSO READ: These Are the Four Venomous Snakes Found in Indiana

How to Identify an Eastern Copperhead

Copperheads are the most common venomous snake in Indiana and perhaps the most misidentified, too. A-Z Animals describes what to look for…

Where Copperheads Are Found in Indiana

Eastern Copperheads are found primarily in the southern half of Indiana, in places like Brown County, where Jim found his. Copperheads are ambush predators – they like to stay still and hidden, rather than being aggressive. They tend to “freeze” when approached, just like in the video.

ALSO READ: Do You Smell Cucumber? A Venomous Indiana Snake Could Be Near

Here's a fun, and slightly frightening fact – copperheads are responsible for about half of U.S. venomous snakebites, but their venom is relatively mild, and fatalities are extremely rare. I still wouldn’t take any chances with one.

Snake Safety Tips Every Hoosier Should Know

1. Stick to trails, especially in rocky, wooded terrain.
2. Watch where you step – and avoid loose logs, brush piles, or stony areas.
3. Don’t poke or handle snakes – most bites happen when people try to kill or move them. Another way to say that is, leave wild snakes alone – they will likely retreat on their own.
4. If bitten, stay calm, call the Indiana Poison Center (1‑800‑222‑1222), and seek prompt medical attention.

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Let Jim’s encounter serve as a friendly reminder that these beautiful reptiles are part of Indiana’s rich biodiversity. And with a little knowledge and respect for their habitat, you can enjoy the outdoors without worry. Just keep an eye out and be sure to give copperheads the space they deserve!