Copperheads are found in Kansas, making them one of the few venomous snake species residing within the state’s borders. This pit viper is relatively common in specific geographic areas, though they are generally shy and reclusive. Understanding their location and characteristics is beneficial for anyone spending time outdoors in eastern Kansas. Knowing how to identify this species and what steps to take if an encounter occurs promotes safe coexistence with native wildlife.
Confirming Their Presence and Range in Kansas
Copperheads are generally restricted to the eastern third of the state, with populations concentrated east of the Flint Hills. Their range extends into the southeastern regions, including areas like the Chautauqua Hills and various river valleys. Two subspecies, the Eastern Copperhead and the Broad-banded Copperhead, occur in Kansas and frequently interbreed where their ranges overlap.
These snakes are habitat generalists but prefer terrain that offers cover and hunting opportunities. They thrive in deciduous woodlands, rocky hillsides, and areas with abundant leaf litter, which provides excellent camouflage. Rocky outcroppings and crevices are frequently utilized as shelter and overwintering sites, often shared with other snake species.
Copperheads may also be found near water sources, such as streams and swampy areas, and inhabit the transitional zones between forests and meadows. Their abundance in eastern Kansas means they can exist near areas of human development due to their secretive nature. Their activity period extends from approximately April to early November, with summer months often prompting nocturnal hunting behavior.
Physical Characteristics and Identification
Copperheads possess distinct physical features that allow for identification, most notably their unique coloration and body shape. Adult snakes typically exhibit a light reddish-brown, tan, or grayish-brown base color overlaid with darker crossbands. These dark markings are often described as having an hourglass shape, wide on the sides of the body and narrow across the back.
The head is broad and distinctly triangular, a characteristic feature of pit vipers, and is noticeably wider than the neck. They also possess a pair of heat-sensing pits, located between each eye and nostril, which aid in locating warm-blooded prey like rodents. Most adults range in length from about two to just over three feet.
Juvenile copperheads are born with a bright yellow or greenish-yellow tail tip. Young snakes use this brightly colored tail to lure small prey, such as frogs and lizards, in a behavior known as caudal luring. This tail color fades to a darker brown or black as the snake matures, typically within its first year.
Distinguishing Copperheads from Non-Venomous Lookalikes
Several non-venomous snakes in Kansas are frequently misidentified as copperheads. The Northern Water Snake is one of the most common lookalikes, as it is widespread and exhibits dark bands on a lighter background, similar to the copperhead’s pattern. However, the water snake’s pattern consists of blotches or bands that are generally uniform across the back, not forming the distinct hourglass shape.
A reliable way to differentiate between these snakes involves observing the head and eyes. Non-venomous species, including the Northern Water Snake and various rat snakes, possess a more slender, oval-shaped head and round pupils in their eyes. Conversely, the copperhead has a chunky, triangular head shape and vertical, elliptical pupils, though pupils can be difficult to discern from a safe distance.
Juvenile copperheads are sometimes confused with the harmless Dekay’s Brownsnake or juvenile rat snakes due to their smaller size and patterned bodies. While juvenile rat snakes are boldly patterned, their pattern is different from the copperhead’s, and their head is not as broad and triangular. If a water snake feels threatened, it will often flatten its head to appear larger, but this shape is flatter and less chunky than the naturally triangular head of a copperhead.
The Prairie Kingsnake, another non-venomous species, also sports a blotched pattern that can cause confusion. Kingsnakes have smooth scales and a more streamlined body compared to the stout build and keeled (ridged) scales of the copperhead. If identification is uncertain, always assume the snake is venomous and maintain a respectful distance.
Safety Measures and Encounter Protocol
The copperhead is a sedentary animal that relies heavily on camouflage, preferring to remain still rather than flee. The most effective safety measure is to remain aware of your surroundings and avoid placing hands or feet where you cannot see, especially in areas with leaf litter or rocky debris. Wearing protective footwear, such as sturdy boots, when hiking or working in wooded areas provides a physical barrier.
If you encounter a copperhead, simply leave it alone, as they rarely bite unless provoked or threatened. The snake will typically move away once it perceives the threat has passed. Clearing away dense brush, tall weeds, and debris piles near homes can also reduce the likelihood of a snake establishing residence nearby.
In the unlikely event of a bite, the immediate priority is to seek professional medical attention by calling 911. While copperhead bites are rarely life-threatening, they are painful and require prompt evaluation for potential antivenom administration. Individuals should remain as calm and still as possible, as panic can increase heart rate and potentially hasten the spread of venom.
Remove any constrictive items, such as rings or watches, from the affected limb before swelling begins. Gently wash the bite area with soap and water, followed by covering it loosely with a clean, dry dressing. Actions to avoid include:
- Applying a tourniquet.
- Cutting the wound.
- Trying to suck out the venom.
- Applying ice, as these measures can worsen the outcome.