Copperhead snakes have unique markings that can be easily mistaken for other species. Some snakes resembling copperheads include Eastern Hognose Snakes, Corn Snakes, Common Water Snakes, Eastern Milk Snakes, Mole Kingsnakes, Black Racer Snakes, Diamondback Water Snakes, Black Rat Snakes, and Banded Water Snakes.
Are you intrigued by the world of snakes and want to learn more about species that look like copperheads? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll dive into the details of each snake species that can be easily confused with copperheads, providing essential information and tips to help you differentiate them.
Table of Contents
Eastern Hognose Snake
| Scientific Name | Heterodon platirhinos |
| Appearance | Upturned snout, keeled scales, wide neck |
| Color | Brown, gray, or reddish with dark blotches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Length | 28-46 inches |
| Diet | Amphibians, insects, small mammals |
| Place Of Origin | Eastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Corn Snake
| Scientific Name | Pantherophis guttatus |
| Appearance | Slender body, saddle-like blotches |
| Color | Orange, brown, or gray with red or brown blotches |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years |
| Length | 24-72 inches |
| Diet | Rodents, birds, and eggs |
| Place Of Origin | Southeastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Common Water Snake
| Scientific Name | Nerodia sipedon |
| Appearance | Heavy body, keeled scales, dark bands |
| Color | Brown, gray, or green with dark crossbands |
| Lifespan | 9-10 years |
| Length | 24-55 inches |
| Diet | Fish, amphibians, small mammals |
| Place Of Origin | Eastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Eastern Milk Snake
| Scientific Name | Lampropeltis triangulum |
| Appearance | Smooth scales, V-shaped marking on head |
| Color | Gray or tan with reddish-brown blotches |
| Lifespan | 12-20 years |
| Length | 24-52 inches |
| Diet | Rodents, birds, and reptiles |
| Place Of Origin | Eastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Mole Kingsnake
| Scientific Name | Lampropeltis calligaster |
| Appearance | Smooth scales, slender body |
| Color | Brown or gray with dark blotches |
| Lifespan | 10-20 years |
| Length | 30-40 inches |
| Diet | Rodents, lizards, and birds |
| Place Of Origin | Southeastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Black Racer Snake
| Scientific Name | Coluber constrictor |
| Appearance | Sleek body, large eyes, smooth scales |
| Color | Black with white or gray belly |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Length | 36-60 inches |
| Diet | Rodents, birds, amphibians, and insects |
| Place Of Origin | Eastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Diamondback Water Snake
| Scientific Name | Nerodia rhombifer |
| Appearance | Heavy body, keeled scales, diamond-shaped pattern |
| Color | Brown or olive-green with dark bands |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Length | 30-48 inches |
| Diet | Fish, amphibians, and small mammals |
| Place Of Origin | Central United States |
| Venomous | No |
Black Rat Snake
| Scientific Name | Pantherophis obsoletus |
| Appearance | Smooth scales, rectangular blotches |
| Color | Black with white or gray belly |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years |
| Length | 48-72 inches |
| Diet | Rodents, birds, and eggs |
| Place Of Origin | Eastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Banded Water Snake
| Scientific Name | Nerodia fasciata |
| Appearance | Heavy body, keeled scales, dark bands |
| Color | Brown, gray, or olive-green with dark bands |
| Lifespan | 9-10 years |
| Length | 24-42 inches |
| Diet | Fish, amphibians, and small mammals |
| Place Of Origin | Southeastern United States |
| Venomous | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Poisonous Are Copperheads?
Copperheads are venomous, but their venom is relatively mild compared to other venomous snakes. Bites are rarely fatal, but they can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage.
Where Do Copperheads Like to Live?
Copperheads prefer forested areas, rocky outcrops, and the edges of swamps and rivers. They can also be found in suburban areas, hiding under rocks or debris.
How Much Venom Does a Copperhead Have?
A copperhead can inject around 40-70 milligrams of venom in a single bite. However, the amount of venom varies depending on the size and age of the snake.
Are Copperheads Good Pets?
Copperheads are not recommended as pets due to their venomous nature and their specific habitat requirements, which can be challenging to replicate in captivity.
What to Do if Copperhead Bites You?
If bitten by a copperhead, remain calm, immobilize the affected area, and seek immediate medical attention. Do not try to suck out the venom or apply ice to the wound.
Is There a Non-Venomous Snake That Looks Like a Copperhead?
Many non-venomous snakes resemble copperheads, such as the Eastern Milk Snake, Corn Snake, and Eastern Hognose Snake.
Do All Poisonous Snakes Have Triangle Heads?
Not all venomous snakes have triangular heads. While many pit vipers like copperheads do have triangular heads, other venomous snakes like cobras and mambas have more elongated, rounded heads.
Related: 6 Venomous Snakes in Georgia | All You Need to Know!
List of Sources
Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos). University of Georgia.
Common Watersnake. Illinois – Department of Natural Resources.
Johnson, P. S. (2020). Identifying Copperhead Snakes. Clemson University.