Eastern Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Venomous Status
Venomous (Solenoglyphous fangs; retractable front fangs characteristic of vipers).
Danger Level
Moderate Risk. While their venom is rarely fatal to healthy adults, the bites are extremely painful and require medical evaluation. They accounts for a high percentage of snakebites in the US.
Geographic Range
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.
Conservation Status
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.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally docile and reliant on camouflage. They typically remain motionless when approached. If provoked, they may vibrate their tail (creating a rattle-like sound in dry leaves) and strike defensively.
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.
Venom Profile
Venom Type
Hemotoxic venom, containing metalloproteinases that cause local tissue damage, pain, swelling, and potential necrosis.
AI-generated — see a qualified source if acting on this. For any snakebite, call emergency services immediately.
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.