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Northern copperhead

A species of Moccasins, Also known as Highland moccasin, Beech-leaf snake, Copper-bell, Copperhead viper
Scientific name : Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen Genus : Moccasins

Northern copperhead, A species of Moccasins
Also known as:
Highland moccasin, Beech-leaf snake, Copper-bell, Copperhead viper
Scientific name: Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen
Genus: Moccasins
Northern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen) Photo By natemartineau , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Description

As a highly adaptable pit viper, northern copperhead exhibits a fascinating range of behavioral attributes. Notably, it is renowned for its ambush predation strategy, using its thermoreceptive pits for prey detection and employing the strike, release, and track method for hunting. In terms of reproduction, northern copperhead is viviparous, nurturing embryos inside the body and giving birth to live young. This reptile often occupies forested habitats, contributing significantly to the control of rodent populations within its ecosystem.

General Info

Lifespan

10-20 years

Diet

Northern copperhead is a carnivorous species with a strong preference for small mammals, primarily rodents. This snake possesses complex hunting behaviors, exploiting its pitviper heat sensing abilities to locate and ambush prey, adhering to nocturnal hunting patterns.

Appearance

Northern copperhead is a medium-sized venomous snake with a thick, stout body covered in keeled scales. It exhibits a striking coloration of light to dark brown, adorned with darker brown to black crossbands. The crossbands often have lighter centers, creating an hourglass pattern. The head is broad and triangular, featuring fangs. Its tail tapers to a yellowish point, a coloration particularly prominent in younger specimens. There are no known significant differences between genders or subspecies.

Behavior

Northern copperhead is primarily a solitary, nocturnal species. It is known for its potent venom and ambush predatory behavior, remaining motionless and well-camouflaged before striking prey. This species tends to avoid conflict, yet will defensively strike if persistently provoked. Its territory is generally limited, primarily centering around its chosen refuge, like a rock crevice or burrow.
Northern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen) Northern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen) Photo By natemartineau , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Scientific Classification

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