Boa contortrix; Print; Agkistrodon contortrix is a species of venomous snake; a pit viper; endemic to Eastern North America; it is a member of the subfamily Crotalinae in the family Viperidae. The generic name is derived from the Greek words ancistro (hooked) and odon (tooth); and the specific name comes from the Latin contortus (twisted; intricate; complex); thus; the scientific name translates into "twisted hook-tooth". The common name for this species is the copperhead. Its behavior may lead to accidental encounters with humans. Five subspecies are currently recognized; including the nominate subspecies described here.; 1700-1880