Common Name: 
Copperhead

Scientific Name: 
Agkistrodon contortrix

Identification: 14-45 in. Beige to light brown, 
with broad, darker brown, hourglass shaped 
crossbands; belly lighter than back, with dark 
brown blotches; scales keeled. The head is tri-
angular and has no markings; pupils are vert-
ical, loreal pits present between each eye and 
nostril. Juvenile copperheads have a bright 
yellow tail tip.
Habits: Copperheads frequent forested and 
wooded areas. Though venomous, these snakes 
are not aggressive and usually lie motionless, waiting for rodents. They are more active at night than day.
Distribution: Throughout Louisiana in wooded areas,
Comments: Warning - Venomous!! The "copperhead" name may be derived from the coppery-red coloration of the heads of some individuals. Because the copperhead can camouflage so well in fallen leaves, pine needles and dry grass it is often overlooked and easily stepped on. Be careful where you step! This snake is responsible for causing the most snake bites in North America. Luckily, it is the least toxic of the venomous snakes in Louisiana. If aggravated, the copperhead will vibrate its tail, which can sound similar to a rattlesnake when it vibrates against leaves and twigs.