Eastern Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: A. contortrix
Southeastern and Eastern United States, ranging from southern New England south to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma.
Look up Eastern Copperhead in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Venomous; Solenoglyphous (possesses long, retractable fangs in the front of the upper jaw).
Danger Level
High Risk / Potentially Dangerous. While copperheads account for many bites, their venom is relatively low in potency compared to other pit vipers, and fatalities are extremely rare with proper medical care.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: A. contortrix
Conservation
IUCN Status: Least Concern. Populations are stable, though threatened by habitat fragmentation and persecution by humans.
Physical Description
Distinctive 'hourglass' or saddle-shaped crossbands that are thinner on the spine and wider on the sides. Background color is tan, copper, or gray. Triangular head, vertical pupils (cat-like), and heat-sensing pits between eyes and nostrils.
Size & Dimensions
Typical adults range from 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 cm). Maximum recorded length is approximately 53 inches (135 cm). This specimen appears to be an adult.
Habitat
Generalist predator found in deciduous forests, rocky hillsides, swamp edges, and suburban woodlots. Prefers terrestrial microhabitats with heavy leaf litter for camouflage.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally docile and relies heavily on camouflage; will remain motionless unless stepped on or harassed. May vibrate its tail in dry leaves to imitate a rattlesnake when threatened.
Diet & Feeding
Opportunistic carnivore. Consumes small rodents, frogs, lizards, birds, and large insects (such as cicadas). Uses an 'ambush and strike' strategy, injecting venom and then tracking the trail.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Typical litter size is 2 to 10 young, usually born in late summer or early fall. Juveniles have bright sulfur-yellow tail tips.
Venom Profile
Hemotoxic and cytotoxic. Causes local tissue damage, edema, and severe pain. Generally lacks neurotoxic components.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with North American Watersnakes (Nerodia spp.), which have dark bands that are widest at the top (saddle shape reversed) and round pupils, and Eastern Milk Snakes which have different patterning.
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Least Concern. Populations are stable, though threatened by habitat fragmentation and persecution by humans.
Cultural Significance
Often subject to human fear and misunderstanding; ecologically vital for controlling rodent populations and maintaining the balance of forest floor ecosystems.
Notable Features
The copperhead is famous for its 'Hershey Kiss' pattern when viewed from the side and its incredible cryptic coloration that makes it nearly invisible in leaf litter.