Copperhead     Agkistrodon contortrix

This snake has a heat-sensitive pit on each side of the head between the eye and the nostril. The head is somewhat flattened and much wider than the neck, giving the copperhead its typical viperidae triangular-shaped head. The pupil of its eye is vertically elliptical. Scales are weakly keeled (ridged). Not all copper heads possess a truly sopper-colored head. Some are actually quite a bit paler. Its body is red-brown or yellowish-brown and distinguishing hour-glass markings lay across the back (when viewed from above).

The copperhead lives in rocky, wooded hillsides, abandoned sawdust piles and swamps. This snake is active during the day in spring and fall, becoming nocturnal in the hottest summer months. When disturbed it will attempt to run away. If trapped, it rapidly vibrates the tip of the tail, making a noise against whatever the tail hits.

This snake may be found in groups, particularly in fall when moving to hibernating dens. Mating occurs in the spring and then again in fall. Delayed gestation occurs according to the season and placement within the females body. She gives birth to a brood of between 2 and 10 young 3 - 9 months later. Eggs develop within the females body and either hatch just prior to or just post birth/hatching, generally within a membranous sac. Each female may produce young only every other year.

This venomous snake injects prey with venom then waits for it to succumb before eating it. The copperhead eats mice, small birds, lizards, snakes, amphibians and insects.

THe Park's copperhead was confiscated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and following the court case, it was placed at the Park.