Rainy weather can also encourage snakes to venture out because prey such as frogs, toads and other amphibians tend to be more active. Almost every state has a variety of snake species, both poisonous and nonvenomous. Only three states do not have venomous snakes: Alaska, Maine and Rhode Island.

There are two venomous snakes in central and eastern Kentucky. These are copperheads and timber rattlesnakes. They are present in southern and eastern Kentucky. If you live in Lexington, Wiley said you won’t find one of these unless you live near the Kentucky River. Snakes that reside in Lexington are pretty much harmless.

To put it simply, yes, they are venomous. But are they extremely dangerous? Not quite. Water moccasins are compelling creatures that stand their ground when threatened, unlike many other snake species.

The state’s venomous snakes — including copperheads — do not get high off the ground, Owens said. Copperheads — the venomous snake most likely to be seen around central North Carolina and the Triangle — have thick, heavy bodies that aren’t ideal for climbing.

A venomous cottonmouth is giving people the willies on social media, after a video recorded by an Alabama biologist showed the snake was caught blending in perfectly with ground cover. Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, are “highly dangerous” with a bite that can be fatal, experts say.