When encountering a snake with white or very pale coloration, a common concern arises regarding its potential danger, often centering on whether it is poisonous or venomous. However, a snake’s color alone does not determine its level of danger, as white coloration can occur in many different species. This article clarifies the distinctions between snake-related hazards and explains the reasons behind a snake’s white appearance.
Clarifying “Poisonous” and “Venomous”
The terms “poisonous” and “venomous” are often used interchangeably, but describe distinct biological mechanisms of delivering toxins. An animal is poisonous if it contains toxins harmful when ingested or absorbed through contact, such as a poison dart frog.
In contrast, an animal is venomous if it actively injects toxins into another organism, typically through a bite or sting. Snakes, for instance, use specialized fangs to deliver venom for prey or defense. Therefore, snakes are classified as venomous, not poisonous, because they inject their toxins.
Why Snakes Appear White
A snake’s white appearance typically stems from genetic conditions affecting pigmentation, rather than natural camouflage. One common genetic mutation is albinism, resulting from a complete lack of melanin, the pigment for dark coloration. Albino snakes often exhibit white or yellow scales and red or pink eyes due to visible blood vessels.
Another genetic condition is leucism, which causes a partial loss of pigmentation. Leucistic snakes may appear entirely white, but unlike albinos, often retain some normal eye color, such as blue, black, or brown. Beyond these genetic mutations, some snake species naturally possess very pale or off-white coloration, allowing them to blend into light-colored environments.
Identifying White Snakes: Harmless and Venomous Examples
Identifying whether a white snake is harmless or venomous can be challenging, as white coloration occurs in both non-venomous and venomous species due to albinism or leucism. Many non-venomous snakes commonly exhibit a white appearance.
The corn snake, a popular pet, can be bred for albino traits, resulting in white and orange patterns. The Texas rat snake can be found in entirely white leucistic forms with blue eyes. Small, harmless albino garter snakes also display a pale white body with faint stripes. None of these snakes pose a venomous threat.
However, white coloration can also occur in highly venomous species, making visual identification based on color alone unreliable. Albino rattlesnakes, such as the Western Diamondback, retain their characteristic rattle but possess a pale, often yellowish-white body with faint diamond patterns. The Eastern Copperhead, another venomous snake, can also exhibit albinism, appearing white with light brown or pinkish hourglass patterns. Leucistic cobras have been observed as ghostly white figures with their distinctive hooding behavior.
While features like pupil shape, head shape, and the presence of a rattle are sometimes used as indicators, they are not always definitive. Relying solely on them can be dangerous due to wide variation within species and individuals.
What to Do When You Encounter a Snake
When encountering any snake, regardless of its color or perceived threat, maintain a respectful distance. Snakes prefer to avoid human interaction and will move away if given the opportunity. Observing the snake from a distance allows it to continue on its path without feeling threatened.
Never attempt to handle, provoke, or capture a snake. Doing so can cause the snake to feel cornered or endangered, increasing the likelihood of a defensive strike. If a snake poses a direct risk, such as inside a home or a busy public space, contact local animal control or a professional wildlife removal service. These professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely relocate the snake without harm.