Here, we’ll look at the exact differences between these two snakes. We’ll start by comparing their size and appearance. Then, we’ll learn about where in the world these reptiles occur and what types of habitats they favor. After that, we’ll go over the behavior of the copperhead vs tiger snake. Finally, we’ll explore the lifespans of each species. Read on to learn more about what makes copperheads and tiger snakes different!
Comparing Copperhead vs Tiger Snake
Key Differences Between Copperhead vs Tiger Snake
The key difference between copperheads and tiger snakes is that copperheads grow to just over three feet long, but tiger snakes can reach over six feet in length. Additionally, tiger snakes are excellent swimmers and often hunt underwater. Copperheads, on the other hand, spend almost no time in the water. A further difference between the two species lies in their behavior: tiger snakes flatten their bodies while copperheads vibrate their tails. Let’s take a closer look at the exact differences between the copperhead vs tiger snake.
Copperhead vs Tiger Snake: Size
Tiger snakes are not small snakes. They don’t grow to the immense lengths of Burmese pythons, king cobras, or green anaconda, but they’re certainly not to be messed with. Most tiger snakes grow to between 3-4 feet. But, the largest specimens reach lengths of more than six feet. The average size is heavily influenced by what part of Australia the tiger snake comes from. Copperheads, though deadly, aren’t very big snakes. The largest copperheads reach around 3.5 feet long, though most barely grow to three feet. These snakes have medium-weight bodies similar to rattlesnakes.
Copperhead vs Tiger Snake: Location and Habitat
Copperheads are native to the eastern half of the United States. They don’t occur in the Florida panhandle, or in the Great Lakes region. But, they can be found as far north as southern Canada, and as far south as northern Mexico. They’re habitat generalists and may be found in swampy areas, wooded hillsides, rocky outcroppings, or fields. Because they prey heavily on rodents, copperheads strongly prefer areas with rodent populations, like agricultural fields and outbuildings like sheds and barns. Tiger snakes occur only in Australia and the neighboring islands of Tasmania and Bass Strait, as well as other small islands. They’re common in southeastern and southwestern Australia. Tiger snakes also occur in disparate populations in north and central Australia. They’re usually found near swamps or marshes, where they frequently hunt underwater.
Copperhead vs Tiger Snake: Appearance
Tiger snakes are, unsurprisingly, striped. But, depending on what region of Australia you’re in, they may be so dark that the stripes are barely noticeable. The most characteristic specimens have clearly divided black and yellow stripes. Unlike copperheads, tiger snakes have relatively narrow heads and round pupils. The copperhead is one of the most distinct snakes in North America. As their name suggests, they have wide, triangular, copper-colored heads with large fangs and vertically elliptical pupils. Their bodies are brown to tan, with regularly spaced hourglass-shaped markings over the back.
Copperhead vs Tiger Snake: Behavior
Both copperheads and tiger snakes possess deadly venom. If you encounter either type of snake, do not attempt to handle or approach them. If you sustain a bite, seek immediate medical attention. When cornered, each species has a unique means of self-defense. Copperheads coil into a ball and rapidly vibrate the tips of their tails to simulate the rattling sound of a rattlesnake tail. When they’re encountered in dry leaves, they can make a sound remarkably close to that of their more dangerous cousins. Tiger snakes aren’t without their tricks, either. These snakes are known to aggressively defend themselves and won’t hesitate to bite. They’ll also flatten out the front half of their body, like a cobra, to appear larger and more threatening.
Copperhead vs Tiger Snake: Lifespan
Copperheads are common snakes throughout much of the Midwestern and Eastern United States. They typically live anywhere from 15-29 years in the wild. Tiger snakes occur in southern Australia and Tasmania, where they generally live between 10-15 years in the wild.
