Eastern Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Venomous Status
Venomous (Solenoglyphous - possesses foldable, hollow front fangs).
Danger Level
Moderate Risk. While their venom is rarely fatal to healthy adults, bites are extremely painful and require medical evaluation. They account for many snakebite incidents in the US due to excellent camouflage.
Geographic Range
Eastern and Central United States, ranging from southern New England south to Florida and west to Texas and the Mississippi River valley.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally stable, though threatened locally by habitat fragmentation and persecution by humans.
Physical Description
Tan to coppery-brown base color with distinctive hourglass-shaped crossbands that are thinner at the spine and wider at the sides. Triangular 'pit viper' head, vertical pupils, and heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril.
Size & Dimensions
Typically 24–36 inches (61–91 cm) in total length. Maximum recorded around 53 inches. This specimen appears to be an sub-adult or adult.
Habitat
Generalist species found in deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, rocky hillsides, and swamp edges. Often found near human structures like woodpiles, rock walls, and debris in suburban areas.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally shy and non-aggressive, relying on crypsis (camouflage) to avoid detection. They will freeze when approached and may vibrate their tail in dry leaves as a warning; they bite only when stepped on or harassed.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; generalist predator eating mice, small birds, frogs, lizards, and large insects (like cicadas). Employs an 'ambush and strike' strategy using heat pits to track warm-blooded prey.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Litters typically range from 1 to 14 young, born in late summer or early fall. Juveniles have a distinctive sulfur-yellow tail tip used for caudal luring.
Venom & Safety
Venom Type
Hemotoxic venom containing protein-degrading enzymes that cause tissue damage, localized pain, swelling, and interference with blood clotting.
First Aid Advice
Keep the victim calm and still, keep the bite site at or slightly above heart level, and transport immediately to a hospital. Do NOT use ice, tourniquets, or attempt to suck out the venom. Antivenom (CroFab) is available.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with non-venomous Northern Water Snakes (Nerodia sipedon) and Milk Snakes. Distinguishable by the 'hourglass' pattern (Water snakes have bands that are widest at the spine, opposite of the Copperhead).
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally stable, though threatened locally by habitat fragmentation and persecution by humans.
Cultural Significance
One of the most recognized snakes in North American folklore. They play a vital ecological role in controlling rodent populations in suburban and rural ecosystems.
Notable Features
Famous for its 'Hershey's Kiss' or hourglass side pattern which provides perfect camouflage in leaf litter. Juveniles use their bright yellow tail tips like a worm to lure small prey within striking distance.