The term “yellow-bellied snake” refers to various species with a distinctive yellow or cream underside. Understanding these species is essential to distinguish between harmless reptiles and those that might pose a risk. It is also important to clarify the distinction between “poisonous” and “venomous” animals, as these terms are frequently misused.
Identifying Yellow-Bellied Snakes
Many North American snake species are called “yellow-bellied” due to their ventral coloration. The Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer (Coluber constrictor flaviventris) is an example, named for its bright yellow or cream underside. Its back is olive-grey to green, and these fast-moving snakes can reach 5.5 feet. Racers inhabit open grasslands, brushlands, farmlands, and sparsely treed woodlands across the central United States and parts of Canada.
The Plains Garter Snake (Thamnophis radix) often has a yellow, white, or bluish belly, alongside an orange or yellow stripe down its back. These medium-sized snakes, 16 to 42 inches long, are found in meadows, prairies, and grasslands, often near water, and can adapt to urban environments. The Plain-bellied Watersnake (Nerodia erythrogaster) features a uniform yellow or reddish-orange belly, contrasting with its greenish-gray or reddish-brown back. These thick-bodied, aquatic snakes, 30 to 48 inches long, reside in rivers, lakes, ponds, and swamps throughout the southeastern United States.
The Yellow-bellied Kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster), also known as the Prairie Kingsnake, has a light belly with brownish blotches. This moderately sized snake, 2 to 3.5 feet long, is found in grasslands, old fields, and open woodlands in regions like western Kentucky. The smaller Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus) can have a yellow or orange belly, often with black spots and a yellow neck band.
Are Yellow-Bellied Snakes Venomous
The terms “poisonous” and “venomous” describe different ways an animal delivers toxins. A poisonous animal delivers toxins when touched or ingested. In contrast, a venomous animal actively injects toxins, typically through a bite or a sting. Snakes, if they possess toxins, are venomous because they inject these substances.
The majority of snakes identified as “yellow-bellied” in North America are non-venomous. This includes the Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer, Plain-bellied Watersnake, Yellow-bellied Kingsnake, and Ringneck Snake. While the Plains Garter Snake is mildly venomous, its venom is not harmful to humans. These snakes primarily rely on constriction or swallowing their prey whole.
Though non-venomous, any wild animal can bite if it feels threatened or provoked. A bite from a non-venomous snake, while not dangerous, can still be painful and may break the skin. It is advisable to treat any wild animal with respect and caution.
Safe Encounters and Behavior
Observe any snake from a safe distance. Snakes are not aggressive and prefer to avoid conflict, often moving away if given the opportunity. Never attempt to handle, provoke, or corner a snake, as this can lead to defensive behaviors, including biting.
If a snake is found in a residential area, contact local animal control or a qualified wildlife removal service. These professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely remove and relocate the snake without harming it or putting themselves at risk. Attempting to capture or kill a snake without proper training can result in unnecessary bites. Non-venomous snake bites should be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
Common Look-Alikes
Some venomous snakes can be mistaken for harmless yellow-bellied species, particularly when young. Juvenile Cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) are tan to brown with reddish-brown bands and often possess a bright sulfur-yellow tail tip. They are thick-bodied with an arrow-shaped or triangular head and have vertical, elliptical pupils. These features distinguish them from non-venomous water snakes, which are often confused with cottonmouths.
Juvenile Copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) have a bright yellow or green tail tip and a pale tan to brown body with dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands. Like cottonmouths, they are pit vipers with triangular heads and vertical pupils. Copperheads are sometimes mistaken for non-venomous species like corn snakes or rat snakes.
Distinguishing features of many North American venomous snakes, particularly pit vipers, include a triangular or spade-shaped head, vertical or slit-like pupils, and heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils. However, some non-venomous snakes can flatten their heads to mimic a triangular shape when threatened, making head shape alone an unreliable indicator. When uncertain about a snake’s identity, maintaining a safe distance is the best course of action.