A contractor working on the demolition of an old deck in Wakefield, a community outside Raleigh, was hospitalized after receiving venomous snake bites to each middle finger, according to a Reddit post on r/WhatsThisSnake and subsequent online discussion.
What happened under the deck
The worker discovered the snake while tearing out the aged decking and reported being bitten twice. In a comment on the Reddit thread the original poster wrote:
"I wish I knew what bit me. Whatever it was, it got [me] 2x and it hurt like hell."
Readers who responded to the post suggested the animal was likely a copperhead or a cottonmouth, both venomous pit vipers found in North Carolina. One commenter noted that timber rattlesnakes are not present in the Raleigh area, narrowing the likely species.
Why hidden spaces are risky
Experts and wildlife observers say shaded, cool spaces beneath old decks and outbuildings often provide shelter for snakes and other animals. Disturbing those hiding spots, especially during renovation or demolition, can bring people into sudden proximity with wildlife that had been avoiding contact.
Residents who share property edges with wooded lots or overgrown yards should be aware that suburban neighborhoods frequently overlap with natural habitat. When a snake is surprised or feels cornered, it can defend itself—sometimes with a bite that requires urgent medical attention.
Medical concerns and recommended steps
Venomous bites can produce rapid swelling, intense pain and other systemic symptoms; even seemingly minor bites should be evaluated by medical professionals. The Reddit poster sought hospital care after the incident, which is the advised course for any suspected venomous envenomation.
- Seek emergency medical attention immediately for any suspected venomous bite.
- Keep the affected limb immobilized and at or slightly below heart level to slow venom spread.
- Avoid applying tourniquets, cutting the wound or attempting to suck out venom.
- If possible, safely photograph or describe the snake to aid medical staff and wildlife officials.
Local species to watch for
Responders in the online thread and regional resources pointed to two likely species. The distinctions are important for identification but medical treatment in most cases focuses on symptom management and antivenom when indicated.
| Species | Typical habitat | Notable features |
|---|---|---|
| Copperhead | Wooded areas, brush, near debris and old structures | Hourglass-shaped bands, blends with leaf litter |
| Cottonmouth | Wetlands, edges of ponds and streams, can also use shaded ground cover | Often seen near water; when threatened, may gape to show white mouth lining |
Community impact and prevention
Home improvement projects, particularly demolition of neglected structures, raise the chance of an unexpected wildlife encounter. Property owners, contractors and do-it-yourself renovators can reduce risk by taking precautions before cutting into hidden spaces.
- Inspect under and around decks for animal activity before beginning work.
- Wear protective gloves and long sleeves; consider thicker hand protection when handling debris.
- Use tools to probe enclosed voids from a distance and maintain a clear escape route.
- Keep yards trimmed and remove piles of debris, which can serve as cover for snakes.
Advice for contractors and homeowners
Contractors working throughout Wake County and surrounding areas should brief crews on wildlife hazards and ensure rapid access to emergency care. Homeowners hiring demolition crews should ask whether the team conducts a pre-work site check for animals and has a safety plan if an encounter occurs.
While venomous snake bites are relatively uncommon, this incident underscores how ordinary renovation projects can carry unexpected dangers. Quick medical attention and careful site preparation are the most reliable ways to limit harm if a bite occurs.
Local wildlife or public health agencies can offer region-specific guidance on identifying venomous snakes and reporting sightings; neighbors concerned about snake activity should consult those resources or contact pest-control professionals for removal and exclusion advice.
Latoya Simmons
State correspondent, WE NEWS
