Copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix

Photo: Alan Rockefeller, CC BY 4.0

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Venomous Not in Northeast Florida

Copperhead

Agkistrodon contortrix

How to spot it
Copper to tan with darker hourglass shaped crossbands, wide on the sides and narrow on the back.
Distribution in Florida
Panhandle
Where you’ll see it
In Florida, only in the Panhandle. Not found in Northeast Florida.
Good to know
A pit viper that relies on camouflage and usually stays still. Give it space.
Often confused with
Corn snakes and other blotched non-venomous snakes.
Distribution in Florida

Panhandle

Copperheads are not found in Northeast Florida. A coppery snake in a Northeast Florida yard is far more likely to be a non-venomous corn snake or watersnake. Send a photo to be sure.

Copperhead
Photo: Steve Karg, CC BY 2.5

Questions

Is the Copperhead venomous?
Yes. The Copperhead is one of Florida’s six venomous snakes. Do not handle it. Back away, keep kids and pets away, and text a photo to (904) 895-7773 for help.
Where is the Copperhead found in Florida?
Distribution in Florida: Panhandle. In Florida, only in the Panhandle. Not found in Northeast Florida.

Found one? Back away.

Text a photo and where you are to (904) 895-7773. A volunteer relocator helps.

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