Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Eastern and central North America, ranging from Massachusetts south to northern Florida, and west to Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Look up Copperhead in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Agkistrodon, Species: Agkistrodon contortrix
Conservation
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, though local populations face threats from habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and intentional killing.
Physical Description
This specimen displays a relatively stout body with strongly keeled dorsal scales. The overall background coloration is a pinkish-tan to reddish-brown. The distinct lighter-colored head appears copper or yellowish-brown in contrast to the body, and the characteristic hourglass or dumbbell-shaped darker crossbands are visible along the length of the back.
Size & Dimensions
Estimated specimen length is approximately 75 to 90 cm. The typical adult size range for the species is 60 to 90 cm, with maximum recorded lengths exceeding 130 cm.
Habitat
Found in a variety of habitats including deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, rocky hillsides, wetland edges, and suburban areas near wooded patches. Prefers microhabitats with abundant cover such as fallen logs, leaf litter, and rock outcrops.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily preys on small rodents, amphibians, lizards, small birds, and large insects such as cicadas. Employs an ambush hunting strategy, waiting motionlessly for passing prey.
Reproduction
Viviparous (live-bearing), giving birth to litters typically ranging from 1 to 21 young in late summer or early autumn. Mating generally occurs in the spring or late summer.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, though local populations face threats from habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and intentional killing.
Cultural Significance
Plays an important ecological role in controlling rodent populations. Often features in regional folklore within its North American range.
Notable Features
Known for the distinctive coppery coloration of the head and the prominent hourglass-shaped crossbands along the dorsal surface, which provide exceptional camouflage in leaf litter.