Yes, copperhead snakes are present in Texas and are one of the state’s four types of venomous snakes, alongside rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and coral snakes. Although their bite is rarely fatal to humans, it is a significant medical event requiring immediate attention. Copperheads are known for their camouflage and ability to adapt to environments near human development, which contributes to the frequency of human encounters, making identification and safety measures important for residents and visitors.
Specific Copperhead Subspecies in Texas
Texas is home to three distinct subspecies of the copperhead: the Southern Copperhead, the Broad-banded Copperhead, and the Trans-Pecos Copperhead. These subspecies are primarily differentiated by subtle variations in their color patterns and geographic distribution.
The Southern Copperhead typically exhibits the classic hourglass pattern. The Broad-banded Copperhead features wider crossbands that may not narrow as much across the spine. The Trans-Pecos Copperhead is visually similar to the broad-banded type but often has a more elaborately patterned underside featuring black and white markings. Interbreeding can occur where their ranges overlap, sometimes resulting in individuals with mixed characteristics.
Geographic Spread Across the State
Copperheads occupy a large portion of Texas, primarily concentrated in the eastern and central regions. The Southern Copperhead is found predominantly in the eastern third of Texas, an area characterized by mixed pastures, woodlands, and river bottoms. Their preferred habitat often includes leaf litter, logs, and other ground debris where they can hide and ambush prey.
Moving westward, the Broad-banded Copperhead is scattered throughout Central and parts of West Texas, often favoring lightly wooded areas near water sources. The Trans-Pecos Copperhead is confined to the Trans-Pecos region in the far western part of the state, typically encountered near springs and canyons. The species is largely absent only from the driest areas of the Trans-Pecos, the extreme southern tip of the state, and the Texas Panhandle.
Distinctive Identification Features
Copperheads are medium-sized, stout snakes, generally reaching an adult length between 20 to 30 inches. The most recognizable feature is the pattern of reddish-brown, copper, or chestnut-colored crossbands set against a lighter background of tan, pinkish-gray, or pale brown. These dark bands are distinctly shaped like an hourglass or dumbbell, being wide on the sides and narrow along the center of the back.
As a pit viper, the copperhead possesses a broad, triangular-shaped head that is noticeably wider than its neck, housing the venom glands. They also have elliptical pupils and a heat-sensing pit located between the eye and the nostril on each side of the face. Juvenile copperheads look like miniature adults but possess a distinctive bright yellow or greenish-yellow tail tip, which they use to lure prey. This bright tail coloration fades as the snake matures, typically disappearing by its third or fourth year.
Encounter Safety and Prevention
Prevention
Preventative measures involve modifying the environment around homes and being mindful of where you step outdoors. Snakes are drawn to areas providing shelter and food, so maintaining a short lawn and promptly removing piles of brush, wood, rocks, or debris reduces favorable habitats. When walking in wooded areas, wearing protective clothing such as thick leather boots and long pants offers protection against accidental bites.
Encounter Response
If a copperhead is encountered, the safest course of action is to maintain distance and allow the snake to retreat naturally. Snakes are not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened or are handled. Never attempt to capture, harass, or kill a snake, as the majority of bites occur when people interfere with them.
Medical Response
If a bite occurs, the immediate priority is to seek medical attention by calling 9-1-1 or the Texas Poison Center Network. While waiting for professional medical help, keep the bitten extremity still and positioned at or below the level of the heart to slow the venom’s spread. Remove any tight jewelry or restrictive clothing from the affected limb before swelling begins. Avoid applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out the venom, as these actions can cause further tissue damage.