Southern Copperhead

Description:

Small, robust pit viper with a pretty two-toned copper color pattern consisting of bands or saddles down the entire length of the body. In Oklahoma, maximum length tends to be about 1 meter, with 40-60 cm. being much more common.

Habitat:

Found on forest floor in oak/hickory/elm cross-timbers area. May rarely be found in open fields.

Notes:

Babies are born live and have a yellow/green tip on the tail that they will wiggle to attract frogs and lizards in a behavior known a "caudal luring". Oklahoma's least toxic venomous snake . . . still, a bite is considered to be a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.