Texas Copperheads and Cicadas, the Hidden Threat in Your Backyard

(Longview, Texas) - Well East Texas, here we are. We're finally getting to warm up and get outside a little bit more. You've probably already started hearing the call of a spring insect as you enjoy some time on the porch. But with that spring insect comes a hidden danger if you venture out into your yard.

The sound I'm referring to is that of a cicada. Well...more like a whole mess of cicadas. With those cicadas brings more copperheads to the area. Why? Because copperheads love to eat cicadas. They will gather at the base of trees waiting for the larvae to emerge.

Copperheads and Cicadas, the Hidden Threat in Your Backyard

This time of year, Cicada larvae begin making their way from their underground nest to shed their shell (KHOU). That's where those empty shells we find stuck on trees, the side of our house or other places with the split on top. That's a hatched cicada.

With this migration, it becomes like a buffet for the copperheads as they just hang out and feed on the unlucky few that can't make it past their strikes. When the cicadas have finished coming to the surface, the snakes go about their business.

Precautions to Avoid Being Bitten

When you do get out, especially around dusk, be sure to bring a flashlight with you to illuminate your path. Also, stay away from tree bases, especially oak trees. If you have your pet with you, keep them close.

Copperheads are venomous but that venom is rarely fatal. However, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible if you are bitten.

Fun Fact: Copperhead venom has been shown to fight certain cancers, including breast cancer.

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