Variable in coloration, this pit viper is generally a peachy-tan color
with dark crossbands that can be brown to reddish-orange (or a copper
color). This snake has weakly keeled scales, a vertical pupil (not
round), and an obvious heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril.
Adults 22 - 36 inches (56 - 91 cm)
Mostly small rodents, but also feeds on lizards, frogs, and some
insects (mainly cicadas).
Breeds in spring and gives birth to live young in late summer to early
fall. Typically has 1 - 12 babies that are
8 - 10" (20 - 25 cm) long.
Woodlands and rocky areas near streams and ponds.
Newborns have a yellow tail tip that they use as a lure to catch prey,
however they lose this tail coloration as adults. These snakes bask in
the mornings and retreat to shelter during the heat of the day, coming
out again in the evening. Copperheads are commonly found near rock
piles, logs, and other debris, using them as cover and also as a
hunting ground. Their coloration allows them to blend in well with
Broad-banded copperhead (central Oklahoma)
Southern copperhead (eastern Oklahoma)
Osage copperhead (extreme northeast Oklahoma)
View All | Venomous |
| Patterned | Solid |
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