How to Identify a Poisonous Copperhead Snake

Agkistradon contortix, more commonly known as the Copperhead snake, bites more people in the United States than any other snake each year. If a person is bitten by a Copperhead snake and is able to identify it there is a better chance for proper medical treatment. These snakes have distinct markings to look for.

Instructions

1. Be aware of the their hangouts. Copperheads live in a variety of regions throughout the United States and Mexico. Find out if Copperheads live nearby in order to take special precautions.

2. Spot the markings. Copperhead snakes have a distinct pattern. Numerous bold bands red-brown in color or a bit darker on the Northern Copperheads, are spread intermittently along the snake. They are shaped like an hour-glass and wrap around their wide body while creating a pattern with light and dark contrast.

3. Know the color. The color varies depending on it's sub-species. The main body can be pinkish, tan, orange or gray. The wide head of the snake is tan, golden-brown or copper in color. A young snake has similar body colors except for the end of it's tail which is a light yellow.

4. Look for length. A Copperhead will range from 24 - 36 inches in length for the average adult and can strike half that distance.

5. Step carefully. Copperheads have mastered the art of camouflage and blend in perfectly with fallen leaves. Be cautious when hiking, rock-climbing or camping since it is easy to overlook and step on this snake. You can also find them in rotting debris, swampy areas and resting in trees.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't apply ice, tourniquets or make an incision these could make the situation worse.

• Try to wash the bite with soap and water, keep the bitten area lower than heart.

• Seek medical treatment as soon as possible if you are bitten.