Eastern Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Venomous Status
Venomous; solenoglyphous (front-folding fangs typical of vipers).
Danger Level
Moderate Risk. While their venom is relatively weak compared to other North American pit vipers, they account for many bites due to their excellent camouflage. Fatalities are extremely rare.
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
IUCN Status: Least Concern. The primary threats are habitat destruction and intentional killing by humans due to fear.
Physical Description
Features a heavy-bodied brown or tan base color with dark brown 'hourglass' or 'Hershey Kiss' shaped crossbands. The head is broad, triangular, and distinct from the neck, typically coppery-red in color. Eyes have vertical, elliptical pupils.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the image appears to be an adult, approximately 24 to 30 inches (60-75 cm). The species typically ranges from 20 to 37 inches, with record lengths around 53 inches.
Habitat
Found in deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, rocky hillsides, and edges of swamps. They are often found near human structures like woodpiles, old buildings, and suburbs with sufficient cover.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally docile and relies heavily on camouflage to avoid detection. If threatened, they may vibrate their tails (mimicking a rattlesnake) and strike defensively if stepped on or handled.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous generalists that hunt via ambush. They eat mice, small birds, lizards, frogs, and large insects like cicadas. Juveniles use a bright yellow tail tip as a lure (caudal luring) for frogs.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (give birth to live young). Breeding occurs in spring or autumn, with litters of 1 to 21 young (averaging 7-10) born in late summer or early fall.
Venom & Safety
Venom Type
Hemotoxic venom that destroys red blood cells and tissue, causing pain, swelling, and localized necrosis. It is rarely fatal to healthy adults but is medically significant.
First Aid Advice
Seek medical attention immediately at a hospital. Do not use ice, tourniquets, or attempt to suck out the venom. Keep the limb immobilized and at or slightly above heart level. Antivenom (CroFab) is available and effective.
Look-alikes
Eastern Ratsnakes (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) and Northern Watersnakes (Nerodia sipedon) are often confused with them. Watersnakes have bands that are widest on the top, whereas Copperhead bands are narrowest on the spine.
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Least Concern. The primary threats are habitat destruction and intentional killing by humans due to fear.
Cultural Significance
A well-known species in American folklore and nature. They play an essential ecological role in controlling rodent populations in the Eastern United States.
Notable Features
Possess heat-sensing pits located between the eyes and nostrils, allowing them to detect warm-blooded prey in total darkness. The hourglass pattern is perfectly evolved for leaf-litter camouflage.