Trans-Pecos Copperhead

Agkistrodon contortrix pictigaster

Venom Status:

Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Not only is the head of this pit viper a rich coppery tan in color, so, too, is the overall ground color. The dark bands, usually broad on the sides and somewhat narrower dorsally are deep russet and are uninterrupted dorsally. Center and base of each crossband are lighter than edges. At their outer extremes they extend onto the belly. Pupils are obviously elliptical in daylight but become much rounder after dark. The nose is sharply rounded, the head is broadest posteriorly. The neck is slender and the body is robust. This snake is adult at 2 to 2 ½ feet in length. The scales are slightly keeled and are arranged in 23 to 25 tows. The anal plate is single. Intergrades sharing the characteristics of the broad-banded copperhead occur where the ranges about. Ovoviviparous. The neonates are paler and grayer than the adults and have a yellow or chartreuse tailtip

 

Unique Features:

A heat sensory pit is located between but lower than the eye and nostril. Pupils are elliptical. This snake is remarkably well camouflaged amongst ground debris and fallen leaves. The tail of neonates is a “yellow lure.” This color fades with growth and age. When defensive copperheads often shake or vibrate their tail. When amidst dead leaves this produces a sound somewhat similar to that of a disturbed rattlesnake.

 

Habitat and Diet:

May be encountered in woodlands, pastures, meadows, wooded homesteads, roadside thickets, or even suburban areas. Primarily feed on smaller reptiles, cicadas, amphibians, rodents and nestling birds.

 

Geographic Range:

TX,