The copperhead's diet ranges from insects to small mammals . The snake also consumes birds , amphibians and other reptiles. Copperheads mate in spring and sometimes autumn. Newborn snakes are between 8 and 10 inches in length and have bright yellow-tipped tails. Young snakes grow rapidly and shed their skin as they grow, often four or more times a year, before they are three years old.
Adults shed once or twice a year.
In preparation for shedding, the snake's eyes secrete lymphatic fluid, which gives them a murky blue appearance.