This week on Discover Nature, while enjoying spring in Missouri, keep a watchful eye to the ground for snakes leaving their winter dens.
The eastern copperhead is the most common of Missouri’s five species of venomous snakes. Its color varies from grayish brown to pinkish tan, with distinctive hourglass-shaped crossbands on its back.
Copperheads live on rocky hillsides and along forest edges. They also spend time among trees and brush along prairie streams, and are often found near abandoned farm buildings. They’re typically not aggressive and seldom strike unless provoked.
Copperheads eat mice, lizards, small birds, insects, and occasionally other, small snakes.
Copperhead venom is considered mild compared to that of other venomous snakes, but medical treatment should still be sought if bitten.
Watch your step, wear protective footwear, and don’t stick your hands under rocks or logs. If you see a copperhead, give it space and let it be. All native snakes in Missouri are protected by law.
Learn more about Missouri’s native snakes with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Snake Guide, find info on venomous species at MDC’s Snake Facts page, and details about the eastern copperhead and its subspecies on the MDC online field guide.
Discover Nature is sponsored by the Missouri Department of Conservation.