Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: A. contortrix
Eastern and central North America, ranging from Massachusetts down to northern Florida, and west to Nebraska and Texas.
Look up Copperhead in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: A. contortrix
Conservation
Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List, with widespread and stable populations, though locally impacted by habitat fragmentation and intentional killing.
Physical Description
Characterized by hourglass-shaped or dumbbell-shaped crossbands that are lighter in the center and darker at the edges, with a coloration ranging from pinkish-tan to copper-brown. The head is typically distinctively coppery-red and wider than the neck.
Size & Dimensions
Typical adult lengths range between 50 to 90 cm (20 to 35 inches), with maximum recorded lengths exceeding 100 cm.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, rocky hillsides, wetland edges, and frequently found near suburban developments bordering wooded areas.
Diet & Feeding
Predominantly carnivorous, consuming small rodents, lizards, small birds, amphibians, and large insects (especially cicadas). They are ambush predators.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous, giving live birth to litters typically ranging from 1 to 21 young, usually in late summer or early autumn.
Look-alikes
Often confused with other species displaying similar brown blotches or bands, such as the corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus), eastern hognose snake (Heterodon platirhinos), and northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon).
Conservation Status
Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List, with widespread and stable populations, though locally impacted by habitat fragmentation and intentional killing.
Cultural Significance
Plays an important role in controlling rodent populations within its ecosystem. Frequently encounters humans due to habitat overlap, leading to significant representation in regional folklore.
Notable Features
Features heat-sensing pit organs located between the eye and nostril on each side of the head, characteristic of pit vipers, aiding in the detection of warm-blooded prey.