Virginia’s natural beauty comes with a few hidden hazards. Some venomous species can surprise gardeners and outdoor lovers alike.
Awareness is the first step to staying safe while enjoying your yard. These 8 species are worth keeping an eye out for in Virginia.
1. Copperhead Snake
Most snake bites in Virginia come from this sneaky reptile. Copperheads blend perfectly with fallen leaves, making them super hard to spot when you’re hiking or working in the yard.
Their hourglass-shaped bands look really cool but serve as a warning. If you see one, just back away slowly and give it space. They’d rather escape than bite you.
2. Timber Rattlesnake
With their signature rattle, these snakes actually give you a heads-up before striking. Virginia’s mountainous regions are their favorite hangouts, especially rocky hillsides and dense forests.
They’re pretty chill compared to other venomous snakes. The rattle sound means you’re too close, so listen carefully when exploring trails. Respect their space and they’ll respect yours.
3. Northern Black Widow Spider
That red hourglass mark is nature’s danger sign you shouldn’t ignore. These spiders love hiding in dark corners of sheds, woodpiles, and garages throughout Virginia.
Only females pack the venomous punch that can make you really sick. Wearing gloves when moving stuff around outdoors is smart. They’re not aggressive but will defend themselves if squeezed.
4. Brown Recluse Spider
Check out that violin shape on its back—that’s your main clue. Brown recluses aren’t super common in Virginia, but they occasionally show up in homes and old buildings.
Their bite can cause nasty wounds that take forever to heal. Shake out shoes and clothes that’ve been sitting awhile. These spiders are shy and hide during daytime hours.
5. Eastern Cottonmouth
Also called water moccasins, these snakes hang around Virginia’s swamps and streams. When threatened, they open wide to show that creepy white mouth that gives them their name.
They’re excellent swimmers and surprisingly bold compared to other snakes. Cottonmouths prefer southeastern Virginia’s wetter areas. Keep your distance from any snake near water to stay safe.
6. Yellow Jacket Wasp
These aggressive wasps cause more problems than any snake in Virginia. Yellow jackets build nests underground or in wall voids, and they’ll swarm anyone who disturbs them.
Unlike honeybees, they can sting multiple times without dying. Late summer makes them extra cranky and dangerous. Watch for increased activity around trash cans and picnic areas during warm months.
7. Bald-Faced Hornet
Those football-sized paper nests hanging from trees? Yeah, those belong to these fierce insects. Bald-faced hornets are actually wasps despite their name, and they’re common across Virginia.
They’re super protective of their nests and will chase intruders pretty far. Their sting hurts worse than regular wasps. Never try removing a nest yourself—call professionals instead.
8. Fire Ant
Step on their mound and you’ll instantly regret it. Fire ants are spreading through Virginia, creating painful problems for anyone who accidentally disturbs their colonies.
Their stings burn like crazy and leave itchy white pustules. Multiple ants attack at once, making it way worse. Kids and pets are especially vulnerable, so watch for raised dirt mounds in your yard.