Eastern Copperhead

Agkistrodon contortrix

A venomous pit viper limited to small areas of the Florida Panhandle.

Eastern Copperheads occur in a limited part of the Florida Panhandle, mainly in wooded habitats near streams, ravines, and upland forests. They are absent from the Tampa area as an established native population.

Their copper-colored head and dark hourglass-shaped crossbands provide useful clues, but identification from a distance is safest. Do not approach or handle a snake for a photograph.

Eastern Copperhead resting among rocks showing copper-colored head

Habitat:

Forests and Woodlands, Pine Flatwoods and Sandhills, Rivers and Springs

Area / Range:

Florida Panhandle

Diet:

Takes small mammals, frogs, lizards, and other available prey.

Behavior:

Often relies on camouflage among leaves and rocks. It may remain still when approached; leave ample room to move away.

Dawn and Dusk

Active Times:

Best time to see:

Most likely in suitable Panhandle woodlands during warm weather

Florida Native Status:

Native

Conservation Status:

Localized in Florida's Panhandle; not widespread across the peninsula

Safety Level:

Venomous. Keep a safe distance

Safety Information:

Stay back and do not handle the snake. If bitten, seek emergency medical care promptly.

Benefits to Property:

Predates rodents and contributes to native woodland food webs.

Property Concerns:

A bite requires prompt medical evaluation. Keep children and pets away, and never try to catch or kill the snake.

Fun Fact:

Florida's copperhead range is far smaller than that of the state's common cottonmouth.

Wildlife Laws:

Florida regulates possession of venomous reptiles. Do not capture, transport, or keep one without the required authorization; contact qualified wildlife help when needed.

Identification:

A stout snake with a broad copper-toned head and darker crossbands that narrow over the back and widen down the sides. The pattern may look like hourglasses when viewed from above.

Young snakes may have a yellowish tail tip. Pattern and color vary, and other snakes can resemble copperheads, so use location and a clear photograph for expert identification.