Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix
The copperhead is a heavy-bodied pit viper of eastern and central North American forests, rocky hillsides, wetlands, and leaf-littered edges. It hunts mostly by ambush, using excellent camouflage to wait for mice, frogs, lizards, small birds, and large insects. When threatened it often freezes, vibrates its tail, or gives a warning display before striking if pressed. Juveniles have a bright yellow-green tail tip that they wiggle as a lure for small prey.
- Type
- Venom / Stealth
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- ?
- Copperhead