Eastern Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Eastern and Central United States, ranging from southern New England south to northern Florida and west to the Mississippi River and cross-state into parts of Texas and Oklahoma.
Look up Eastern Copperhead in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Venomous (Solenoglyphous fangs)
Danger Level
High Risk; though bites are rarely fatal to healthy adults due to relatively low venom potency and yield, they cause significant pain and tissue damage requiring immediate medical evaluation.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they face threats from habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and intentional killing by humans.
Physical Description
Tan to pinkish-gray base color with distinctive dark brown, hourglass-shaped crossbands that are narrow on the back and wider on the sides. Scales are keeled. Head is broad and spade-shaped (though head is damaged in this specimen). Pupils are vertical (elliptical).
Size & Dimensions
Specimen appears to be an adult of approximately 60-80 cm. Typical adult size for the species is 61-91 cm (24-36 inches), with a maximum recorded length of about 135 cm.
Habitat
Deciduous forests and mixed woodlands, often near rock outcroppings, swamp edges, or river bottoms. Also frequently found in suburban areas with sufficient leaf litter or debris. Found from sea level to approximately 1,500 meters.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally placid but will defend itself if stepped on or provoked. They rely heavily on camouflage to avoid detection (crypsis). Activity is diurnal in spring/fall and shifts to nocturnal during hot summer months.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; opportunistic feeder including mice, small birds, lizards, frogs, and large insects (especially cicadas). Uses an ambush 'sit-and-wait' strategy, utilizing venom to subdue prey.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young); typical litter size is 4 to 12 young. Breeding occurs in spring and fall, with births typically occurring in late summer. Young possess sulfur-yellow tail tips.
Venom Profile
Primarily hemotoxic; contains enzymes such as metalloproteinases that cause tissue destruction, localized pain, edema, and ecchymosis.
Look-alikes
Often confused with non-venomous Northern Water Snakes (Nerodia sipedon), which have bands that are widest on the back rather than the sides, and Eastern Milk Snakes (Lampropeltis triangulum), which have blotches rather than hourglasses.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they face threats from habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and intentional killing by humans.
Cultural Significance
A frequent subject of North American folklore; ecologically important as a mid-level predator that controls rodent populations. Its venom is currently being researched for potential anti-cancer properties (Contortrostatin).
Notable Features
The 'hourglass' pattern is the most diagnostic feature. Juveniles have a bright yellow or chartreuse tail tip used for 'caudal luring' to attract small frogs or lizards within striking range.