The sight of an entirely white snake is a rare and striking event, immediately raising questions about its nature and potential danger. This unusual coloration is not indicative of a specific species but is rather a genetic anomaly that can occur in any type of snake, whether harmless or venomous. Therefore, the simple answer is that its color offers no clue to its danger level, as the same mutation can appear on a common garter snake or a rattlesnake. Understanding the biology behind this lack of color is the first step toward accurately assessing the risk during an encounter.
The Biology Behind White Coloration
The white or pale appearance in a snake is caused by one of two genetic conditions: albinism or leucism. Both result from a disruption in the production or expression of pigments, particularly the dark pigment melanin.
Albinism
Albinism is defined by the complete lack of melanin, the pigment responsible for black and brown colors. Since melanin is also present in the iris, albino snakes typically have red or pink eyes because the blood vessels behind the eye become visible. Although they lack dark pigments, albino snakes can sometimes display yellow, orange, or reddish hues if other color-producing pigments are still present. This means not all albino snakes are pure white, sometimes showing faint patterns or a yellowish cast.
Leucism
Leucism results in a partial or total reduction of all types of pigment, not just melanin. However, the cells responsible for eye pigment are often unaffected, meaning leucistic snakes usually retain normal dark, gray, or blue eyes. Leucistic individuals can range from nearly all white to those with a patchy or “pied” pattern alongside their normal coloration.
How to Assess the Danger Level
The color of a snake, even a white one, should never be used to determine if it poses a threat. A white snake is merely a common species wearing a rare coat, and its danger level is solely determined by the species it belongs to. Since the white color obscures species-specific patterns, assessment must rely entirely on universal physical characteristics.
Head Shape
One of the most reliable features to observe is the shape of the snake’s head relative to its neck. Many venomous snakes, particularly pit vipers like copperheads and rattlesnakes, possess a distinctly broad, triangular, or spade-shaped head that is significantly wider than the neck. Non-venomous snakes often have a more slender head that blends smoothly into the neck. However, some harmless species can mimic the triangular shape by flattening their heads when threatened.
Pupil Shape
Another feature to look for is the shape of the pupil within the eye. Most venomous pit vipers have pupils that are vertical slits, similar to a cat’s eye, especially in bright light. Conversely, most non-venomous snakes have round pupils. Note that there are exceptions, such as the venomous coral snake, which also has round pupils.
Facial Pits
Venomous pit vipers are also distinguished by the presence of a deep, heat-sensing pit located between the eye and the nostril on each side of the face. While difficult to see from a safe distance, this feature is a definitive marker for a venomous snake in many regions. Since color is an unreliable indicator, it is always safest to assume any unidentified white snake is venomous and to maintain a respectful distance.
Immediate Steps Upon Encounter
When you encounter a snake, regardless of its color or your assessment of its danger level, remain calm and immediately create distance without making sudden, startling movements. Slowly back away from the snake to a distance of at least six to ten feet, giving it ample space to move on its own.
Never attempt to handle, capture, or provoke the snake, even if it appears docile or injured. Snakes typically only strike defensively when they feel cornered or directly threatened. If you are with children or pets, secure them immediately by calling them away or moving them indoors, as pets are often bitten when they investigate a snake.
If the snake is located in an area where it poses an unavoidable threat, such as inside a home, garage, or a high-traffic walkway, contact a local professional. Wildlife control services or trained snake removal experts are equipped to safely relocate the animal without causing harm. Allowing the snake to move on its own is the best course of action, as it will likely leave the area once it feels the threat of human presence has passed.