Characteristics of Copperhead Snakes

Copperhead snakes (Agkistrodon contortrix) are poisonous snakes that can be found in the central and eastern United States. There are five subspecies of copperheads snakes. If threatened, a copperhead snake will immediately strike without warning.The majority of snake bites in the U.S. are from copperheads, and while a bite from a copperhead is very painful, it is typically not life-threatening in adult humans. They can cause serious reactions among children and small animals; if your child or pet is bitten, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Shape and Markings

• Copperheads snakes a typically 2 to 3 feet in length with tails that are tapered near the end. Female copperheads tend to be longer than males. Copperhead snakes usually have light brown, orange and occasionally pink bodies and feature brown hourglass shapes along the length of their bodies. The bellies of the snake feature grayish or black splotches that form a pattern similar to marble. Newborn copperheads have bright yellow tails, which the baby snakes can use to attract prey.

Habitat

• Copperhead snakes tend to be solitary creatures with the exception of mating season and during hibernation. Copperheads can be found wherever there is cover in areas such as bushes, wood piles or swamps. Copperheads are primarily nocturnal creatures, particularly during the summer months if the evenings are warm and humid; although they can also be active during the daytime, usually in spring or fall. Copperheads hibernate with other snakes, including snakes of different species.

Mating

• The copperhead mating season involves contests between males and females for the right to breed. Male copperheads must fight and defeat other males for the opportunity to mate. Once male copperheads are defeated, they tend to give up on mating. Females can also challenge the males and will refuse to mate with any male that retreats from their aggression. The copperhead mating season begins in the late spring or early fall. Female copperheads usually give birth to up to 14 young snakes. Baby copperheads are born with fangs and venom and are between 8 and 10 inches long.

Eating Habits

• Copperheads can sense warm-blooded prey through their sensory facial pits. Copperheads only consume approximately 10 to 12 meals per year and typically feed on rodents, although they can also feed on other lizards, amphibians and birds. The copperhead injects its prey with venom that breaks down the creatures blood cells, causing circulatory failure. The copperhead then swallows its prey and digests the edible parts of the body.