When a Northern Copperhead is lying in the path, it’s prudent to change direction. Although it’s one of three venomous snake species in Virginia a bite is rarely fatal to humans, but the bite can cause extreme pain and tissue damage. Most bites occur when the snake is either accidentally stepped on or an attempt is made to pick it up for removal or destruction. The Northern Copperhead has an important role in controlling rodent populations – reducing crop damage and rodent-spread diseases. If you spend any time in natural settings it pays to learn to identify snake species.