Alabama’s diverse landscapes, from its northern mountains to its southern coastal plains, support a wide array of wildlife, including many species of snakes. These reptiles are a natural part of the state’s intricate ecosystems, playing important roles in maintaining ecological balance. Understanding the different types of snakes found in Alabama is a significant step toward appreciating their presence and ensuring harmonious coexistence.
Alabama’s Venomous Snakes
Alabama is home to six species of venomous snakes. The copperhead, Agkistrodon contortrix, is the most commonly encountered venomous snake in the state. These snakes grow to about 2 to 3 feet in length and are recognized by their hourglass-shaped, reddish-brown crossbands against a lighter tan or pinkish-brown background. They inhabit wooded areas, rocky outcrops, and suburban environments, blending with leaf litter.
The cottonmouth, or water moccasin, Agkistrodon piscivorus, is a semi-aquatic snake found in swamps, marshes, ditches, and the edges of ponds and lakes. Adults range from 2 to 6 feet long and can be dark brown, olive, or black, often with faint dark crossbands. When threatened, they may display the white, cotton-like interior of their mouth. Their broad, triangular heads and stout bodies are characteristic features.
The eastern diamondback rattlesnake, Crotalus adamanteus, is the largest venomous snake in North America. Adults reach 3 to 6 feet long. This heavy-bodied snake is identified by dark, diamond-shaped patterns outlined in yellow or cream along its back. It prefers dry pine forests, sandhills, and coastal hammocks, especially in the southern half of Alabama. The distinct rattle at the end of its tail is a warning mechanism.
Timber rattlesnakes, Crotalus horridus, are found in forested, hilly areas of Alabama. They are robust snakes, growing 3 to 5 feet long, and exhibit distinct dark chevrons or bands on a lighter background, which can range from yellow to gray or black. A prominent dark stripe often runs from their eye to the angle of their jaw. They possess a rattle at the tail tip.
The pygmy rattlesnake, Sistrurus miliarius, is a smaller species, rarely exceeding 2 feet. It is found statewide in various habitats including pine forests, swamps, and lake edges. Its coloration varies, but it has a grayish or tan body with dark, rounded blotches down its back and smaller spots along its sides. Its rattle is very small and produces a faint, insect-like buzz that is often difficult to hear.
Eastern coral snakes, Micrurus fulvius, have alternating bands of red, yellow, and black. These slender snakes measure 20 to 30 inches and are found in sandy areas, pine forests, and coastal regions in the southern half of Alabama. Their unique banding pattern, where red bands touch yellow bands, distinguishes them from non-venomous mimics. Unlike pit vipers, the coral snake has small, fixed fangs and a small, rounded head.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes in Alabama
Alabama hosts a large variety of non-venomous snakes. The black racer, Coluber constrictor, is a slender, fast-moving snake that grows 3 to 6 feet long. Adults are uniformly black with a white chin and throat, while juveniles have a blotched pattern. They are active during the day and found in various habitats, including woodlands, fields, and suburban areas.
Rat snakes are common and excellent climbers. These snakes reach 4 to 6 feet, and their coloration varies. They may be black, yellow, or gray, with blotches or stripes. They are found near barns, wooded areas, and old buildings where they hunt rodents.
Garter snakes, Thamnophis sirtalis, are small, growing 2 to 3 feet long. They are identified by three longitudinal stripes—one down the back and one on each side—against a green, brown, or black background. They inhabit gardens, grasslands, and wetlands, and are seen near water sources.
Kingsnakes, Lampropeltis getula, are known for striking patterns and consuming other snakes, including venomous ones. The eastern kingsnake has smooth, shiny black scales with narrow, yellow or white chain-like bands across its body. These snakes grow 3 to 6 feet long and are found in various habitats, including pine forests, swamps, and agricultural areas.
Corn snakes, Pantherophis guttatus, are medium-sized snakes, 2 to 4 feet long. They are recognized by their orange, brown, or red blotches outlined in black against a lighter orange or tan background. They are found in wooded areas, rocky outcrops, and abandoned buildings in the southeastern United States. Their pattern often resembles that of Indian corn, giving them their common name.
Ring-necked snakes, Diadophis punctatus, are small, slender snakes, 10 to 15 inches long. They are identified by a yellow or orange ring around their neck. Their bodies are solid dark gray, black, or olive, with a bright yellow or orange underside. They are secretive and found under rocks, logs, or leaf litter in moist woodlands and gardens.
General Distinctions Between Venomous and Non-Venomous Snakes
Several general characteristics distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes in Alabama. Most venomous snakes in Alabama, excluding the Eastern coral snake, are pit vipers. They possess a broad, triangular-shaped head. Non-venomous snakes have a slender head that blends with their body. Pit vipers also have elliptical, cat-like pupils, while most non-venomous snakes have round pupils.
Pit vipers have loreal pits, small, heat-sensing organs located between the eye and the nostril. These pits are absent in non-venomous snakes. Scales on the underside of the tail also provide clues; most venomous snakes have a single row of scales from the vent to the tail tip, while non-venomous snakes have a double row.
Rattlesnakes are identified by a rattle at the end of their tail, which they use as a warning. The Eastern coral snake defies many of these general rules, with a small, rounded head and round pupils, similar to many non-venomous species. Its distinctive red-on-yellow banding pattern is the primary identifier. These are general guidelines, and exceptions or variations exist, so caution should always be exercised when encountering any snake.
Safe Coexistence with Alabama’s Snakes
Living safely alongside Alabama’s snake population involves understanding their behavior and respecting their space. When encountering a snake, maintain a safe distance, typically at least six feet. Never attempt to handle, harass, or provoke any snake, regardless of whether it is believed to be venomous or non-venomous. Snakes are most active during warm weather, particularly in spring and summer, and often seek sun in open areas or shade under cover.
Being aware of typical snake habitats helps reduce unexpected encounters. Snakes hide in tall grass, brush piles, rock crevices, and under debris. Clearing leaf litter, trimming overgrown vegetation, and keeping woodpiles tidy around homes makes an area less attractive to snakes. If a snake is encountered, backing away slowly and allowing it to move away on its own is the safest approach.
Snakes play an important ecological role by controlling populations of rodents and other small pests, benefiting natural ecosystems and human environments. If a snake is found in an undesirable location, such as inside a home, contact local animal control or a professional snake removal service rather than attempting to remove it personally.