Let’s take a closer look at copperheads in Oklahoma. We’ll learn about where they like to live, when they come out, and the circumstances under which they might bite a human. We’ll also learn more about the species in general, including what they look like, how big they get, and what they act like. Read on to learn more about copperheads in Oklahoma!
Species Profile: Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
Copperheads are best identified by their lack of rattles and their distinct coloring and markings. These snakes have broad, triangular heads and pink tongues. Their coloring ranges from bright orange to dull brown, and they can grow up to three feet long. Copperheads are venomous rodent hunters that only bite humans in self-defense.
Habitat and Range
Copperheads are most common in rocky outcroppings, agricultural fields, shrublands, and mixed grasslands. They can occasionally be found near sources of water, like rivers and lakes, bounded by craggy areas. Copperheads are also sometimes found in intraurban or even suburban settings. The bottom line is that wherever there are rodents, and adequate cover, there are probably copperheads.
Appearance
At birth, copperheads measure around six inches long. They have bright yellow or green tail tips for the first year of their life. Other than this, juveniles are duller in color than adults but look otherwise the same. Adult copperheads in Oklahoma have wide, triangular heads and vertically elliptical eyes (like a cat). These features, in addition to the heat-sensing pits just behind their nostrils, are hallmarks of pit vipers. The most distinguishing feature of the copperheads is their color and pattern. Copperheads have a base color of tan to burnt orange. Their bodies are marked by regularly spaced hourglass shapes that extend from one side, over the back, and down the other side. The hourglass markings have dark borders with lighter fill. Copperheads are the only snakes in Oklahoma with this appearance.
Size
Copperheads are small, light snakes. They rarely weigh more than two pounds and grow to an absolute maximum length of 40 inches. Most adults grow to around 36 inches (three feet). They’re not much bigger than the common corn snake!
Behavior
Copperheads are ambush hunters. They lie in wait and, when prey strays too close, they strike with lightning speed to envenomate. Then, they back off and wait for the prey to succumb to the venom before swallowing it whole. Copperheads in Oklahoma do not hunt or chase people or dogs. Bites occur when people or dogs accidentally get too close or intentionally try to handle or harass a copperhead. Copperheads are active during the spring, summer, and fall in Oklahoma. They’re nocturnal during the summer months and diurnal (active during the day) in the spring and fall. They usually spend winters in a state of semi-hibernation known as brumation and may even nest with other species of snake, like the rattlesnake.
Where do Copperheads in Oklahoma Live?
Copperheads in Oklahoma live in the eastern and central parts of the state. They’re common in rocky, grassy areas with plenty of rodents. Unfortunately, these snakes sometimes reside in suburban backyards, where they can become a nuisance. Unlike water snakes, copperheads do not live in the water, though they may be found near water sources. They’re also not forest dwellers, so don’t expect to find copperheads in wooded areas.
Do Copperheads in Oklahoma Bite?
Copperheads are not known as aggressive snakes, but they can still bite. They don’t seek out people to bite. Rather, most bites happen when people accidentally or purposefully get too close for comfort. Copperheads strike fast, so you might not even see the snake before it bites you. If you sustain a bite from a copperhead, do not attempt to further interact with the snake for any reason. Attempting to capture or kill the snake that bit you increases your chances of sustaining another bite. Instead, seek medical attention. Never ice or attempt to suck the venom from a snakebite.
Interacting with Copperheads in Oklahoma
Copperheads in Oklahoma are shy, non-aggressive snakes. Unlike rattlesnakes, they have no noisy warning system to announce themselves, so most bites happen when people or dogs accidentally come too close. Copperheads have incredibly effective camouflage and often hide under rocks or bushes. So, if you’re rooting around in rocky areas or underbrush, look before you reach. If you happen to see a copperhead, leave it alone. This beautiful snake is best viewed from a distance and should never be harassed, injured, or otherwise threatened. Without copperheads in Oklahoma, rodent populations would explode, which would negatively impact the entire native ecosystem. If a bite occurs, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. With prompt care, copperhead bites almost never cause serious complications. Fatalities from copperhead venom are exceedingly rare but are more likely in the very young and very old.
