Maumelle High Helmet Hidden Venomous Cottonmouth

A Maumelle High School football player unknowingly wore a helmet with a venomous cottonmouth tucked under the padding for about an hour during practice, prompting coaches to remove the helmet and hand it to animal control. Maumelle Animal Services identified the snake as a cottonmouth and used a flooding technique to coax it out before safely capturing and relocating it to a nearby wooded area. The incident, which had initial reports of a copperhead, underscores that snakes seek dark, protected spaces and can hide in equipment. The player was uninjured and wore a different helmet as practice continued. School and animal-control officials stressed the importance of inspecting equipment and surrounding areas before use, plus checking gear for pests or intruders. Staff reflected on safety procedures and the need to stay vigilant about venomous snakes in Arkansas.