Will Cicadas Cause More Copperhead Snakes?

Copperhead snake
iStock.com/David Kenny

Written by Lex Basu

Updated: February 10, 2025

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Humans aren’t the only observers who are excited about the cicada emergence. Local carnivores and omnivores, from birds to moles to snakes to foxes, almost always dine well during cicada season. For this reason, locals often notice an apparent increase in animal populations around areas where the cicadas are due to appear.

One of the many concerns for residents and wildlife enthusiasts alike is whether the presence of cicadas increases local snake populations, especially copperheads. So whether you’re worried about snake bites or you’re just curious, keep reading to learn more about the impact of cicadas on area copperhead snakes.

Why Cicadas Are Such Easy Prey

During their short lifespans, cicadas lay eggs on as many plant surfaces as they can. The eggs hatch six weeks after being laid. The baby cicadas then burrow into the ground to find roots to feed on. When they first emerge from the ground, they are often disoriented and vulnerable. The cicada nymph crawls to a nearby tree and begins the molting process. Cicadas are completely immobile during molting, making them incredibly easy prey. If they make it through molting, they’ll turn into an adult cicada and gain the ability to fly.

The tactic that cicadas use to survive this high carnivore presence is called predator satiation. Essentially, the cicadas emerge from the ground in such high numbers that their predators quickly get full. No matter how many cicadas succumb to predators, plenty of others will survive to create the next generation. Because the cicadas only live above the surface for a few short weeks, it’s not surprising that they use a self-sacrificing tactic to ensure their young’s success. Fortunately, every clutch contains around 600 eggs, so there are almost always plenty of cicadas to start the next generation.

Will Cicadas Cause More Snakes
When cicadas are molting, they are extremely vulnerable to attacks from predators.

Will There Be More Copperhead Snakes?

One myth that is often repeated is that there are more snakes around during the cicada season. The presence of such easy prey is indeed incredibly attractive to predators. However, the truth is that cicada emergence just draws the snakes out of hiding. Copperhead snakes live throughout the eastern and central U.S., but we typically do not see them. They avoid people and they are more likely to be nocturnal during the warmer weather when cicadas emerge.

Another theory that goes around is that copperheads travel great distances to reach cicada spawning grounds. Researchers have confirmed that copperheads do not go far from their normal habitats to attend the cicada feast. Copperheads prefer cicadas in the nymph or larval stage because they are softer and easier to digest. So, they will go to specific locations where their prey is abundant. This means they can be found lurking around trees and bushes, waiting for a chance to strike. While you may see more snakes, the snake population has not grown. That comes later.

Cicadas and Copperheads Have a Mutually Beneficial Relationship

Northern copperhead snake
During cicada season, copperheads can often be found lurking around trees and bushes.

One of the effects of cicada season is healthier snake populations and increased reproduction rates. Although copperheads are talented hunters and do not need cicadas to survive, cicadas are a substantial, and easily accessible, food source. Many young snakes are born following a cicada emergence. This population boom lasts until resources start to dwindle and a natural decline begins.

Although it may not seem like it at first, cicadas also benefit from this relationship. While copperheads use the cicadas as a food source, they also have an important role as natural predators. Helping to control the cicada population can prevent unsustainable numbers that would be damaging to the long-term health of the trees and bushes. Healthier trees and bushes support the survival of cicada nymphs, helping to ensure the propagation of the species.

How to Protect Yourself from Copperhead Snakes

In the U.S., copperheads bite more people than any other snake. The bites are rarely fatal, but you still don’t want a surprise run-in. Be sure to wear tall boots made from leather or another thick material. Stay safe by knowing, and avoiding, the places copperheads are likely to be. Wherever there is an abundance of cicadas, there could be snakes nearby.

Walk slowly when approaching rocks, trees, and other areas where a copperhead might be hiding. Startling these snakes is the easiest way to get bitten. If you see a copperhead, stay at least ten feet away. If you are bitten, stop moving to make sure the venom doesn’t spread, and call 911 immediately.

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About the Author

Lex Basu

Lex is a green-living, tree-hugging, animal-lover, who at one time was the mother to twenty one felines and one doggo. Now she helps pet owners around the globe be the best caretakers for their most trusting companions by sharing her experience and spreading love.

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