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