Copperhead snakes are venomous pit vipers recognized by their distinctive reddish-brown or coppery body with dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands. This article addresses their presence in Michigan and provides information on other native snakes.
The Definitive Answer: No Copperheads in Michigan
Copperhead snakes (Agkistrodon contortrix) are not found in Michigan, as the state lies outside their natural geographic range. Their primary distribution extends across the central and eastern United States, from southern New England south to the Florida panhandle and west to eastern Kansas and Nebraska. Copperheads typically inhabit rocky, forested hillsides, wetlands, and suburban areas within their range. Michigan’s climate and ecosystems do not align with the preferred habitat and environmental conditions that support stable copperhead populations.
Michigan’s Only Venomous Snake: The Eastern Massasauga
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is Michigan’s only native venomous snake. These small to medium-sized rattlesnakes average 2 to 3 feet in length. They possess a stout body, typically gray or light brown, with large, light-edged chocolate brown to black blotches along their back and smaller blotches on their sides. The Eastern Massasauga has a triangular-shaped head and vertical pupils, similar to a cat’s eye. Their most distinguishing feature is a keratinized rattle at the end of their tail, which produces a buzzing sound when vibrated. In Michigan, they prefer wetland habitats like bogs, fens, wet meadows, and adjacent uplands. The Eastern Massasauga is federally threatened and state endangered.
Distinguishing Harmless Snakes from the Massasauga
Many non-venomous snakes in Michigan are often confused with the Eastern Massasauga.
Northern Water Snake
The Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) has dark bands or squarish blotches on a lighter background. It can appear aggressive when cornered, sometimes flattening its head to resemble a Massasauga. However, Northern Water Snakes have round pupils and their heads transition smoothly into their bodies, lacking the distinct neck of a Massasauga. They also swim with only their head above water, unlike Massasaugas which float with their entire body visible.
Eastern Milk Snake
The Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum) has smooth, shiny scales and red or brown blotches bordered by black, often on a tan or gray body. While their pattern might cause confusion, Milk Snakes have round pupils, a non-triangular head, and lack a rattle, though they may vibrate their tail to mimic a rattlesnake.
Eastern Hognose Snake
The Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) is known for its upturned snout and defensive display, which includes puffing up, hissing, and playing dead. These harmless snakes have round pupils and their head is not distinctly triangular.
What to Do if You Encounter a Snake
If you encounter a snake in Michigan, observe it from a distance and leave it undisturbed. Snakes generally avoid human contact and will not attack unless provoked. If a snake is in an undesirable location, allow it to move on naturally. Do not attempt to handle, harass, or capture any snake.
In the event of a snake bite, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or your local emergency number. While waiting for help:
- Remain calm.
- Remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the affected area.
- Keep the bitten limb still.
- Clean the bite with soap and water.
- Cover it loosely with a clean bandage.
- Do not apply a tourniquet.
- Do not cut the wound or attempt to suck out the venom.