Osage copperhead - Agkistrodon contortrix

Head of an adult copperhead

Description:

  • VENOMOUS

  • 22-36 inches total length
  • Found in woodlands and brushy meadows near woodlands
  • Active during day when cool, at night when hot
  • Feeds on cicadas, small birds, frogs, toads, lizards, and snakes

Interesting fact:

  • Hatchling and juvenile copperheads have bright yellow tails, which they wiggle enticingly to draw the attention of potential prey animals that think the tail tip is a juicy worm or caterpillar.

Range map in Kansas:

Map of Kansas with counties containing copperheads in red.

More images:

Adult copperhead