Two dogs have been bitten by what officials say they believe is a copperhead snake.
A copperhead sighted at Blue Hills in 2017. Don Lyman for The Boston Globe, File
Attleboro officials issued a warning to city residents on Wednesday, warning that a rare venomous snake has been spotted in the area.
The snake, believed to be a copperhead, was reported along the Ten Mile River near Milk Street, city officials said. The snake is reported to have bitten two dogs, officials said.
“Please be cautious when walking or running in this area, and keep your dogs close,” officials said.
According to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, the copperhead, while found from southern New England to Illinois and south to Georgia, is listed as an endangered species in the Bay State. Generally, they have only been found in the southern Connecticut River Valley and the Boston area, according to the state.
“The copperhead is one of Massachusetts’ most mysterious and rare snakes,” state wildlife officials wrote online. “Very few people will ever encounter a copperhead in Massachusetts by accident.”
Massachusetts copperheads have triangular, reddish-brown heads and reddish crossbands against a tan or beige background. The vipers also have vertical or cat-like pupils.
According to state officials, copperheads are “rarely” aggressive toward people, but if they are threatened they can “move quickly, vibrate their tail rapidly, and strike repeatedly.”
“Most copperhead bites occur when people step on or touch one accidentally,” officials wrote. “Bites require immediate medical attention. They are painful and can cause tissue damage, but they are not fatal.”
State wildlife officials urge people to maintain a safe distance from copperheads if spotted and to avoid handling or disturbing them.
Attleboro officials asked residents with questions or concerns to contact the city’s health department at 508-223-2222 ext. 3241.
Dialynn Dwyer is a reporter and editor at Boston.com, covering breaking and local news across Boston and New England.
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