Keep your distance! Check out 3 of KY’s ‘most dangerous’ critters and how to avoid them
From mountains to woodlands and wetlands, Kentucky has a variety of habitats to explore.
Each has its own potentially dangerous creatures you could encounter, so we’ve rounded up three to look out for and what you need to know if you run into one.
Deer
Compared to some of the other species we’re covering here, you might be wondering why we’re starting with deer.
Sure, the copperhead commands a healthy respect from hikers, but when you consider the sheer number of deer vs. vehicle collisions in the Bluegrass State each year, the deer is a natural pick.
In 2020, at least 2,091 highway crashes involving deer were reported to police, a database maintained by Kentucky State Police shows.
Each year, between the months of October and December, the number of those types of collisions can easily increase five-fold, according to crash figures provided by Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist Kyle Sams, who studies deer in particular.
As Sams explains, these months are when males begin to rut as part of their mating cycle. When the days start to get shorter, bucks naturally begin to produce more testosterone. Their necks get thicker and they chase females with abandon — even if it means barreling into oncoming traffic.
The deer have a reduced concern for their safety during this time, “completely opposite to the way they are during the rest of the year,” Sams explains.
If you’re driving in rural areas, especially during dawn or dusk, when deer are most active as crepuscular creatures, get in the habit of scanning the sides of the road.
If you spot a deer on the side of the road, you should slow down and turn on your lights. Never swerve to avoid hitting a deer, Sams warned.
In general, it’s just not a good idea to interact with deer, especially if they appear sick or feel cornered. A deer that’s been acclimated to humans might feel safe enough to attack, and a buck with sharp antlers and hooves can do serious damage, Sams said.
Venomous snakes
The Bluegrass State is home to four species of venomous snakes: the timber rattlesnake, pygmy rattlesnake, the cottonmouth (also called the water moccasin) and the copperhead.
Two in particular – the copperhead and cottonmouth – are often confused. Here’s how to identify them.
Copperheads:
Are the most-commonly encountered venomous snake in Kentucky
Appear dull gray or orange in color
Feature an hourglass or “Hershey’s kiss” pattern along their body
Adults are 2 to 3 feet in length
Young cooperheads are brightly colored with a lime green or yellow tail tip meant to mimic a juicy caterpillar to lure prey
Cottonmouths:
Adults are chocolate brown or black
Their young have an irregular, triangular-band pattern that fades as they mature
In Kentucky, they’re only found in the western half of the state
In general, most snakes Kentuckians encounter are non-venomous, herpetologist Dr. Steven Price previously told the Herald-Leader.
As a good practice, you can keep an eye out while outdoors and give snakes a wide berth when you encounter them, as they aren’t looking to interact with you.
If you do get bit, seek medical attention.
Black bears
Black bears are rarely aggressive toward humans and actively go out of their way to avoid contact.
However, with their populations on the recovery in the state in recent years, you have a greater chance of encountering one than when their habits were decimated by early 20th century logging operations.
According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, black bears are naturally curious creatures.
If one approaches you in the wild, it’s likely trying to check you out to see if you pose a threat. It may even stand upright to get a good whiff of your scent.
Should you be approached by a bear, stand your ground, raise and wave your arms to appear bigger and yell at it until it leaves the area. Do not run from a bear. If you hear the bear pop its jaw or make huffing sounds, back away slowly.
If you’re camping in the area, you can prevent these encounters by making sure you put away food and clean up after cooking outside. Hikers might consider carrying a can of bear spray.
With a few precautions, Kentuckians can experience and appreciate the state’s wildlife.
Do you have a question about wildlife or the environment in Kentucky for our service journalism team? We’d like to hear from. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky Form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
