Copperhead snakes (Agkistrodon contortrix) are venomous pit vipers native to North America. This article details their presence in Kansas, how to identify them, and what to do if encountered.
Copperhead Presence and Distribution in Kansas
Copperheads are found in Kansas, with two subspecies, the Eastern Copperhead and the Broad-banded Copperhead, inhabiting the state. These two subspecies frequently interbreed and hybridize across much of Kansas. Their population is most abundant in the eastern part of the state, particularly east of the Flint Hills. They are generally found north and east of the Neosho River basin, extending into the Flint Hills along rocky riparian corridors. Specific areas where they are commonly encountered include southern Butler and Cowley Counties.
These snakes prefer diverse habitats such as open rocky woodlands, woodland edges, and meadows with adjacent brush. They also inhabit rocky outcroppings, crevices, and occasionally areas near water sources like lakes, rivers, and swamps. They may also venture into farm buildings if food sources are present.
During cooler spring and fall months, they are active during the day, often found coiled on rocky hillsides or forest floors. In the summer, they become more active at night.
Identifying Copperheads
Distinguishing a copperhead involves recognizing several physical characteristics. Their base body color ranges from tan to orange, or gray to light brown, often with a pinkish tint. The head itself is typically a coppery-tan color.
The most recognizable feature is their pattern of darker brown crossbands, which are distinctively hourglass-shaped. These bands are typically wider on the sides of the snake’s body and narrow as they cross the spine, resembling an hourglass. However, in some Broad-banded Copperheads, these crossbands can be nearly equal in width across the back and sides.
Copperheads possess a broad, triangular, or arrowhead-shaped head that is noticeably wider than their neck. This distinctive shape is due to the presence of venom glands located behind their eyes. As pit vipers, they also have heat-sensing pits situated between their eyes and nostrils.
Their eyes have vertical, elliptical pupils, similar to a cat’s, with yellow, golden, or brown irises. Young copperheads have a yellowish or sulfur yellow tail tip, which they use to attract prey. This yellow coloration fades as they mature, usually by three or four years of age.
Encountering a Copperhead
If you encounter a copperhead, remain calm and maintain a safe distance. Copperheads are generally not aggressive and will usually move away if given the opportunity. Do not attempt to provoke, handle, or kill the snake. Slowly backing away and allowing the snake to retreat is the safest approach.
When in areas known to harbor copperheads, be observant of your surroundings and watch where you place your hands and feet. Their camouflage allows them to blend seamlessly with leaf litter, making them difficult to see.
In the event of a copperhead bite, prompt medical attention is necessary. Call 911 or your local emergency services immediately. While waiting for medical help, try to remain calm to help slow the spread of any venom. Remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the bitten area, as swelling is likely to occur.
Gently wash the bite site with soap and water. Keep the bitten area still and, if possible, at heart level. Avoid applying ice, using a tourniquet, or attempting to cut the bite or suck out the venom, as these actions can worsen the injury. Do not try to capture or kill the snake, but if it is safe to do so from a distance, a photograph of the snake can assist medical professionals with identification and treatment.