CHARLOTTE, N.C. — People are not the only ones looking for refuge from the scorching heat this summer.
Snakes are also trying to find places to stay cool, and that means more chances of running into one.
A mild winter and a hot summer means lots of snakes have been making an appearance, but experts said it's not because the snake population has increased.
Mecklenburg County Natural Resources Manager Chris Matthews said if you see a snake in your neighborhood, it's probably because they are looking for a place to stay cool.
"Because a snake can't regulate its body temp, they have to find shade in order to cool down, so they'll go into a section of woods, next to your house, they'll go under your house, under your car, somewhere they can find a place to cool down," Matthews said.
While the encounter may be scary, Matthews said the good news is the snake you encounter probably won't be dangerous.
Matthews said the main poisonous snake in our area is the copperhead. It's light brown with dark brown patches that look like saddles. Baby copperhead snakes stand out because they have bright yellow or green tails.
Matthews said many people commonly mistake the nonpoisonous brown snake and water snake for copperheads.
Brown snakes are often found in pine needles close to homes or yards, and true to their names, water snakes typically dwell near water.
"If you see a snake, back away; walk away quietly. If you see a threat, take it into consideration, but more times than not, a snake is not going to bite you, chase you, come after you. They really don't want to have anything to do with you," Matthews said.
Experts said if, by chance, you or your pet are bitten by a snake, get medical attention immediately. Even if the snake is not poisonous, you could still get an infection from the bite.
Also, if you can do it safely, try to take a picture of the snake so doctors will have a better idea of how to treat you.