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 the Florida Panhandle and west to the Mississippi River and parts of Texas.
Look up Eastern Copperhead in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally abundant, though threatened locally by habitat fragmentation and persecution by humans.
Physical Description
Distinctive 'hourglass' or 'Hershey Kiss' shaped crossbands that are wider on the sides and narrower at the spine. Ground color is tan to pinkish-brown. Triangular head, vertical pupils, and heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the image appears to be a sub-adult or small adult, roughly 24-30 inches. Species average is 24-36 inches (61-91 cm), with a record of 53 inches.
Habitat
Generalist species found in deciduous forests, rocky hillsides, swamp edges, and suburban areas. Prefers microhabitats with leaf litter or debris for camouflage.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous. Feeds on mice, small birds, lizards, frogs, and large insects (especially cicadas). Uses an ambush strategy, injecting venom and then tracking the scent of the prey.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Litters typically range from 1 to 21 young, usually 4-7, born in late summer or early fall.
Look-alikes
Common Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon) is most often confused but has bands that are widest at the spine. Juveniles resemble Cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) but lack the dark eye stripe.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally abundant, though threatened locally by habitat fragmentation and persecution by humans.
Cultural Significance
Significant in North American ecology as a predator that controls rodent populations. In culture, it is often a symbol of hidden danger due to its cryptic coloration.
Notable Features
Juveniles possess a bright sulfur-yellow or chartreuse tail tip used for 'caudal luring' to attract frogs or lizards by mimicking a worm.