Reptile · Venomous snake
Copperhead care guide
Agkistrodon contortrix
The copperhead is a expert-level venomous snake from E and central United States. Adults reach 60–100 cm and live 15–25 years in captivity. A common first venomous species for specialists; still needs locks, tools and permits.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Warm 28–30°C, cool 20–22°C
- Humidity 50–70%
How much does a copperhead cost in Canada?
Copperhead quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 60–100 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–25 years
- Activity
- Crepuscular
- Native range
- E and central United States
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 28–30°C, cool 20–22°C
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice
- Bioactive style
- Temperate forest
Copperhead enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a temperate forest bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
Keep a moisture gradient: drier on top and at the warm end, slightly moist underneath and at the cool end.
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 20–22°C. Humidity: 50–70%. UVB: Recommended.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a copperhead eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Usually calm and reluctant to strike, but never free-handle.
Health watch: Watch for obesity and respiratory infections.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check temperatures and refresh water.
Weekly
- Lightly moisten the cool end and lower soil.
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter; check hides and branches are stable.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a copperhead bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 cm).
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm
Coco Husk Chips - Dried Loose Pack
Optional top layer (coco husk chips)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Cork Bark Flats
A hide in each temperature zone
Cork Branches
Many colubrids climb more than people expect
Copperhead FAQ
Is the copperhead good for beginners?
No – the copperhead is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Usually calm and reluctant to strike, but never free-handle.
What size enclosure does a copperhead need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a copperhead cost in Canada?
Typically $150–400 CAD to buy, about $570–1070 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $200–400 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a copperhead need?
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 20–22°C. Humidity: 50–70%.
What does a copperhead eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 10–14 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.