The Copperhead
by John Gifford

 

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Highly adaptable, it thrives in close proximity to man, and encounters, though rare, are occasionally unpleasant. On the other hand, the copperhead is very efficient in controlling populations of rodents, making it extremely valuable to farmers and gardeners. The copperhead is distinguishable by the hourglass-shaped bands on its light brown back. During the breeding season, these copper-colored bands are almost luminous, making the copperhead one of the most recognizable snakes on the landscape. Compared to other snakes, the copperhead has a moderately heavy body, but it rarely exceeds three feet in length.

Copperheads prefer rocky, wooded hillsides above stream valleys, where they den and hibernate before the first frost of fall. Unlike rattlesnakes, copperheads do not congregate in large numbers while hibernating.

 In early April, copperheads emerge from hibernation but remain near their dens for several weeks before mating. Males mate for the first time during their second summer, but females don't reproduce until age three. From late August to early October, a female will produce up to 11 young. The young are dark and glossy for 3-10 days after birth until their first shedding. 

The copperhead's diet varies with the seasons. In the spring and fall, they subsist largely on frogs, but in the summer they concentrate primarily on small mammals like rats and mice.         

Copperheads commonly sun or hide in masses of dead leaves where their coloration makes them nearly invisible. When daytime temperatures reach or exceed 90 degrees, they move to fields or creek bottoms. Hikers and campers should be cautious in such areas, especially during spring when snakes are lethargic and less likely to flee from intruders.

Like most snakes, copperheads are not dangerous unless cornered or threatened, and even then they prefer to escape without incident. Sometimes they remain motionless, relying on their natural camouflage to conceal them from danger. When provoked, however, the copperhead can and will strike more than once. With its tail braced against a rock or other solid object, it can lunge the length of its body to strike. In addition, copperheads can strike from one-third to one-half their body length in any direction and from any position. Though less toxic than the other pit vipers, a bite from a copperhead is painful and requires immediate medical attention.

Unfortunately, copperheads are often killed by humans simply because they are venomous. Given sufficient space and respect, the copperhead poses little threat to humans. Because they eat so many small mice and rats, the copperhead should be considered one of our state's greatest reptilian
assets.