Copperhead

Characteristics

• Average size is between 2 and 3 feet
• Diet consists primarily of small rodents but will also eat insects and frogs
• Lives primarily in deciduous forests and mixed woodlands but will also live in pine forests and swampy regions.

The copperhead is a venomous pit viper found in North America. Copperhead’s and juvenile water moccasins are often confused for each other. Like the water moccasin, the copperhead has a relatively thick body, broad angular head, and a distinct neck. The copperhead is a tannish color with a series of dark crossbands. Water moccasins can have similar markings during adolescence but become darker and darker with age.

The copperhead is not overly aggressive and will try to avoid humans. However copperheads will strike if a threat gets incredibly close.  The venom of the copperhead is one of the lowest potent venoms of all pit vipers and will often use a warning bite when threatened. These “dry bites” will only release a small amount of venom if any at all. However anyone bit by a venomous snake should seek medical attention immediately.