COPPERHEAD
Agkistrodon contortrix
DESCRIPTION
The Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is a venomous snake found in North America, known for its distinctive copper-colored head and hourglass pattern on its body. It is a member of the pit viper family and is often found in wooded or rocky areas.
FUN FACTS
- Copperheads are known for their unique coloration that helps them blend into their surroundings | They are one of the most common venomous snakes in the eastern United States | Unlike many other snakes, Copperheads give live birth instead of laying eggs
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight0.5-2 kg
Average Length0.6-1.2 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternCrepuscular
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- Copperheads inhabit a variety of environments, including deciduous forests, swamps, and rocky hillsides. They prefer areas with ample cover and access to water.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Wetland
- Native Range
- The native range of the Copperhead extends from the eastern United States to parts of Mexico.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States, Mexico
- Diet
- Copperheads primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. They use their heat-sensing pits to locate warm-blooded prey.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- small mammals
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Crepuscular
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
VU
0.5-2 kg
Weight
0.6-1.2 m
Length
- Coloration
- Copperheads have a light brown or tan body with darker brown or reddish hourglass patterns.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally smaller than females.
- Lifespan
- 10-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 5-6 months
- Offspring per Birth
- 5-15
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, but habitat loss poses a threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and road mortality. They are often killed out of fear due to their venomous reputation.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, larger snakes, and mammals such as raccoons.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Copperheads rely on their camouflage to avoid detection and will often freeze when threatened.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon