No. 005 · snake · Risk: Moderate
Copperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix
In season · SeptemberSoutheastNortheast / Mid-AtlanticMidwest / Plains
- Field tell
- Hourglass-shaped bands, copper-tan head; freezes and blends into leaf litter instead of fleeing.
- Season
- Active April–November; shifts to nighttime activity during peak summer heat.
SNAKEBITE
If someone is bitten
- Move a safe distance from the snake — don't try to identify or catch it.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
- Keep the person calm and still; keep the bite at or below heart level.
- Remove rings, watches, and tight clothing near the bite before swelling starts.
- Do not cut the wound, apply ice, use a tourniquet, or try to suck out venom.
Not medical advice. Call 911 or Poison Control 1-800-222-1222.
Related snakes
- Western Diamondback — Diamond blotches; black-and-white banded tail above the rattle.
- Eastern Diamondback — Largest venomous snake in North America; bold dark diamonds edged in cream.
- Timber Rattlesnake — Dark chevron crossbands on yellow-brown body, solid black tail.