Copperhead Snake

Description:

Agkistrodon contortrix is a species of venomous snake endemic to North America, a member of the Crotalinae (pit viper) subfamily. The common name for the species is the "copperhead." The behavior of Agkistrodon contortrix may lead to accidental encounters with humans. Adults usually grow to a total length of 50–95 cm (20–37 in), although some may exceed 1 m (3.3 ft). Males are usually larger than females.

Habitat:

In most of North America it favors deciduous forest and mixed woodlands. It is often associated with rock outcroppings and ledges, but is also found in low-lying swampy regions. During the winter it hibernates in dens, in limestone crevices, often together with Timber Rattlesnakes and Black Rat Snakes.

Notes:

We found the this copperhead in our backyard under the bird feeder and next to the KOI pond. As the habitat above describes, we found a large rat snake a few days ago.