CHARLOTTE, N.C. — More and more snakes are being spotted slithering around the Charlotte area, and officials in South Carolina told Channel 9 snake bites in the state are up 30 percent this year.
[IMAGES: Snake sightings in the Carolinas]
Warmer temperatures this spring are allowing people to get outside more often, meaning they're running across snakes earlier than expected.
The Palmetto Poison Center said they've had 24 bites this year, up from 17 at the same time in 2016.
"The fortunate thing is our snakes are not aggressive,” said herpetologist Will Dillman. “It's very, very unusual for people to encounter a venomous snake out in the wild, particularly in South Carolina."
If you do get bit by a snake, it's best to remain calm and call 911. You also will want to wash the bite with soap and water, and do not put ice on it.
The Carolinas Poison Center in Charlotte has received four times the number of calls for snake bites compared to the same time last year.
Among those bitten is a Concord teen who tried to pick up a copperhead after his sister ran it over with her bike.
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