The copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is a pit viper found across the eastern and central United States, named for its distinctive copper-colored head.
Camouflage over confrontation
Copperheads have hourglass-shaped body markings that blend remarkably well with fallen leaves and dappled ground cover. Rather than fleeing when something approaches, a copperhead will often simply stay still and rely on that camouflage — which is a big part of why people occasionally end up much closer to one than they realize before it's spotted.
A trick for luring prey
Young copperheads are born with a bright yellow or greenish tail tip, which they can wiggle to mimic a small worm or grub. This lures curious prey like frogs or lizards within striking range — a hunting tactic called caudal luring. The tail color fades as the snake matures.
Range: Eastern and central United States · Length: Usually 60–90 cm · Diet: Rodents, insects, amphibians, and reptiles · Venom: Hemotoxic · Habitat: Forest edges, rocky hillsides, and leaf litter