Eastern Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Found throughout the eastern and central United States, ranging from southern New England south to northern Florida, and west to the Mississippi River, with related species moving further west.
Look up Eastern Copperhead in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Conservation
IUCN status: Least Concern. Main threats include habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and intentional killing due to fear.
Physical Description
Features a light tan to pinkish-gray base color with distinct 'hourglass' or 'Hershey's Kiss' shaped crossbands that are darker brown. The head is noticeably wider than the neck, triangular, and solid copper-colored. Pupils are vertical (cat-like) and there are heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils.
Size & Dimensions
Typical adult length is 61-91 cm (2-3 feet). Maximum recorded is about 135 cm. Based on the photo, this specimen appears to be an average-sized adult.
Habitat
Terrestrial species found in a variety of habitats including deciduous forests, rocky hillsides, woodlots near edge habitats, and sometimes near swampy areas or riverbanks. Elevation ranges from sea level to approximately 1,500 meters.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; feeds on mice, small birds, lizards, amphibians, and large insects (like cicadas). They use an ambush strategy, striking and releasing prey to follow the scent trail after the venom takes effect.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Litters typically range from 2 to 18 young born in late summer or early fall. Juveniles possess a bright sulfur-yellow tail tip used for caudal luring of prey.
Look-alikes
Often confused with the Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon), which lacks the hourglass pattern and heat pits, and the Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum), which has smooth scales and different patterning.
Conservation Status
IUCN status: Least Concern. Main threats include habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and intentional killing due to fear.
Cultural Significance
Mistakenly feared and persecuted, they play a vital ecological role in controlling rodent populations. Their venom is currently being researched for potential applications in treating breast cancer (specifically a protein called contortrostatin).
Notable Features
The 'hourglass' pattern is a perfect example of disruptive coloration, making them nearly invisible against a forest floor of dead leaves. The bright yellow tail in juveniles is a unique adaptation for luring frogs and lizards.