Arkansas hosts a robust and varied population of snakes due to the state’s significant geographical diversity. The unique landscape, encompassing the mountainous terrain of the Ozarks and Ouachitas, dense forests, and extensive Delta wetlands, creates numerous distinct habitats for reptiles. Understanding which species inhabit these areas, particularly those that pose a risk, is foundational for residents and visitors to safely coexist with the state’s wildlife. This knowledge allows for proper appreciation of the non-venomous species while promoting caution around the few medically significant species.
The Scope of Snake Diversity in Arkansas
The state is home to approximately 39 native snake species, demonstrating a high degree of biodiversity. The vast majority of these reptiles are harmless to humans and play an important ecological role in controlling local pest populations. This impressive number of species is distributed across diverse ecoregions, each favoring different types of snakes. The Ozark and Ouachita Mountains provide shelter for species adapted to drier environments, while the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (Delta region) supports species requiring aquatic habitats. Out of all the species, only six possess venom that is considered medically significant to humans.
Essential Identification of Venomous Species
Five of the six medically significant species in Arkansas belong to the pit viper family. Pit vipers are characterized by heat-sensing pits located between the eye and the nostril, typically broad, spade-shaped heads, and elliptical pupils.
Eastern Copperhead
The Eastern Copperhead is the most frequently encountered venomous snake, recognized by its pale tan to reddish-brown coloration and distinct dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands. These terrestrial vipers are often found in mixed woodlands, rocky areas, and near residential buildings. They become primarily nocturnal during the heat of summer.
Northern Cottonmouth
The Northern Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, is the only aquatic venomous snake in the region, inhabiting swamps, drainage ditches, and slow-moving bodies of water. Adults tend to be heavy-bodied and dark, often nearly black, but they typically display a distinctive white line running from the eye to the jaw. When threatened, they expose the bright white interior of their mouth, a defensive display that gives them their common name.
Rattlesnakes
The Timber Rattlesnake is one of the state’s largest venomous snakes, identified by its pattern of dark, jagged crossbands against a grayish or yellowish-brown background, along with the obvious rattle at the tail end. This species is widely distributed across the state, preferring wooded areas, floodplains, and rocky hillsides. The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake is considerably smaller, rarely exceeding two feet in length, and has a very small, faint rattle that may only be audible a short distance away. This diminutive viper is gray with black blotches and is found in diverse habitats, including pine forests and urbanized areas.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes
The non-venomous species of Arkansas far outnumber the venomous ones and are easily distinguished by their round pupils and generally more slender body shape.
Common Non-Venomous Species
The Western Ratsnake is arguably the most common species in the state, often found climbing trees or slithering through gardens and barns. These beneficial constrictors primarily feed on rodents, providing excellent natural pest control. Kingsnakes, such as the Speckled Kingsnake, are also common and are known for their natural resistance to the venom of pit vipers, which they sometimes prey upon. The Speckled Kingsnake has a dark body covered in small white or yellow spots, giving it a speckled appearance. Garter Snakes are long, slender, and typically marked with three light-colored stripes running down the length of their bodies.
Some harmless species employ clever defensive behaviors that cause them to be mistakenly killed. The Eastern Hognose Snake may flatten its neck and head to appear larger, or even roll over and play dead to deter a perceived threat. Western Ratsnakes and Kingsnakes can also vibrate their tails rapidly in dry leaves, producing a buzzing sound that mimics a rattlesnake.
Encounter Prevention and Habitat Awareness
Snakes are most likely to be found in areas that offer secure cover, easy access to water, and a reliable food source. When walking in natural areas, wearing sturdy, over-the-ankle boots provides a layer of protection against accidental bites. Hikers should always watch their step and avoid stepping over large logs or rocks without first visually checking the ground on the other side.
Homeowners can minimize encounters by managing their property to be less attractive to snakes. This involves several steps:
- Clearing away woodpiles, rock piles, and other yard debris where snakes like to shelter.
- Regulating dense vegetation and tall grass near the house.
- Controlling the local rodent population.
- Sealing cracks in foundations and outbuildings, as snakes often enter garages or sheds looking for rodents.
It is best practice to simply observe a snake from a distance, as most bites occur when people attempt to handle, harass, or kill a snake.