Photo of Northern Copperhead Snake

Northern Copperhead


Scientific name: 

The scientific name for the Northern Copperhead is Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen

Where they're located in New Jersey: 

Northern Copperheads are located in the Northern region of the state

Venomous: 

Yes, Northern Copperheads are venomous

Placement on Endangerment Scale: 

Endangered in the state (EN)

Temperament:

Northern Copperheads are defensive, they will coil and hiss as a warning to predators. They will inject venom if the animal or human continues to harass the snake.

Physical characteristics:

Northern Copperheads are reddish brown in color with dark crossbands and slightly keeled scales. They are very well camouflaged on the forest floor. Head is slightly copper in color. They can grow to be 24-36 inches in length.

Live or egg birth: 

Northern Copperheads have live births

Preferred habitat:

Rocky slopes, forests, rotting wood piles, or camouflaged on the forest floor