Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Copperhead Snake?

Nick Doniger
Nick Doniger

Copperhead snakes are among the most prominent reptiles in North America and are considered pests since these snakes are both poisonous and often infest residential properties. Copperhead snakes are usually found in heavily wooded areas and retreat to dens during hibernation and birthing, and belong to the family Crotalidae. Crotalids, or pit vipers, are named for the small pits between the eyes and nostrils. These facial recesses sense heat to aid in location of prey. Mating and birthing takes place at various times of the year.

Copperhead snakes are named as such due to the copper coloring on the side of the head. These snakes have an overall brownish color with dark bands across the body, though younger copperheads tend to be grayish in color with yellowish tails. A copperhead snake's coloration blends well with dead leaves on the forest floor, allowing the snakes a strong camouflaging advantage. An adult copperhead snake is generally between 20 inches (50 centimetres) and 40 inches (101 centimetres) long.

Both the copperhead and moccasin are of the Agkistrodon genus.
Both the copperhead and moccasin are of the Agkistrodon genus.

Most copperhead snakes are found along the eastern border in the United States. They are, however, found all over North America, including the deep south and Mexico. These reptiles can often be found in residential gardens, under decks, and in cars, giving them a reputation as an unwanted, threatening pest.

In the United States, approximately 37% of all reported venomous snake bites in 2001 were administered by copperhead snakes. Swelling, low blood pressure, and extreme pain often result from such a bite. Fatality is rare among humans, though small animals may die from copperhead venom. Medical attention, however, is still required for humans upon being bitten. A copperhead snake is generally not inclined to administer a venomous bite unless it perceives an immediate lethal threat from a potential predator.

Low blood pressure may occur as a result of a copperhead snake bite.
Low blood pressure may occur as a result of a copperhead snake bite.

The copperhead snake is fairly adaptable to various types of ecosystems, but prefers the deciduous forest. On occasion, copperheads can be found in swamps, wetlands, and even pine forests. Copperhead snakes prefer to live in wooded areas near water sources, as this is where prey is most likely to be spotted. Prey includes rodents, frogs, other reptiles, insects, and even small birds.

While extremely painful, a bite from a copperhead snake is generally not considered fatal to humans.
While extremely painful, a bite from a copperhead snake is generally not considered fatal to humans.

From October to February or early March, the copperhead snake hibernates in its underground den, which receives exposure to southern or eastern sun. These dens are frequently returned to by the snakes for years. Baby copperheads are birthed at dens as well.

The copperhead mating period takes place in either autumn or spring. Birthing generally takes place between late summer and early autumn. Approximately ten to 12 baby snakes are produced per litter, and these babies are independent from the parent snakes right from birth. Baby snakes are birthed alive, rather than hatched from eggs as many types of snakes are.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Copperhead snake and where can it be found?

A Copperhead snake is a venomous species native to North America, particularly found in the eastern and central regions of the United States. They inhabit a variety of habitats, from forests and mountains to wetlands and rocky areas. Copperheads are known for their distinctive copper-red heads and patterned bodies, which provide excellent camouflage among fallen leaves and forest underbrush.

How can you identify a Copperhead snake?

Copperhead snakes are easily identifiable by their characteristic hourglass-shaped bands on a body that can range from a pinkish-tan to a brownish color. Their heads are typically a coppery-red, and juveniles have a yellow-tipped tail, which they use to lure prey. They average about 2 to 3 feet in length and have keeled (ridged) scales.

Are Copperhead snakes aggressive towards humans?

Copperhead snakes are generally not aggressive and tend to freeze when encountered, relying on their camouflage to avoid detection. They will bite if they feel threatened or if accidentally stepped on or touched. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Copperhead bites are typically less severe than other venomous snakes but still require immediate medical attention.

What should you do if bitten by a Copperhead snake?

If bitten by a Copperhead, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately, even if the bite seems minor. Keep the bitten area immobilized and lower than the heart. Avoid applying ice, tourniquets, or attempting to suck out the venom. According to medical experts, prompt treatment with antivenom can be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

What do Copperhead snakes eat and how do they hunt?

Copperhead snakes are carnivorous and primarily feed on rodents, small birds, lizards, and insects. They are ambush predators, meaning they often lie in wait for their prey to come close before striking. They use their heat-sensing pits to detect warm-blooded prey and deliver a venomous bite to immobilize it before consumption.

How does the Copperhead snake contribute to its ecosystem?

Copperhead snakes play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling the populations of their prey, such as rodents and insects, which can be pests to humans. They also serve as a food source for larger predators. Their presence indicates a healthy, biodiverse environment, as they are an integral part of the food chain.

Discussion Comments

Feryll

Have you heard that copperheads smell like cucumbers and this is a good means of identifying them? This is true sometimes. A copperhead snake will release an odor similar to the smell of cucumber when it feels threatened. Other than in those situations, they smell like other snakes, I guess.

Drentel

@Laotionne - A healthy adult with a healthy immune system most likely is not going to die from a copperhead snake bite. When you read that a copperhead is not deadly, the writing is referring to the fact that the venom of this snake is not as potent as the venom of other snakes.

A person who dies from a copperhead bite will do so in most cases because of an allergic reaction or because of other health issues that were made worse or highlighted by the injection of venom. Of course, whether you die directly from the strength of the venom or indirectly from an allergic reaction or organ failure, you are still dead.

I would have to say that any snake bite has the potential to be deadly, so you should take all precautions and seek treatment if you are bitten by one. And since the copperhead is venomous, you should be more concerned about them than non-venomous snakes.

Laotionne

I have always heard that copperheads are deadly snakes. However, according to copperhead snake information I read recently, copperhead snakes are not deadly. I am getting confused.

This article says that copperhead bites are rarely fatal to humans, so that tells me some people do die. So how concerned should I be about these snakes and their bites?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Both the copperhead and moccasin are of the Agkistrodon genus.
      Both the copperhead and moccasin are of the Agkistrodon genus.
    • Low blood pressure may occur as a result of a copperhead snake bite.
      By: mangostock
      Low blood pressure may occur as a result of a copperhead snake bite.
    • While extremely painful, a bite from a copperhead snake is generally not considered fatal to humans.
      By: ronstik
      While extremely painful, a bite from a copperhead snake is generally not considered fatal to humans.