Arkansas is home to approximately 39 native snake species, playing a vital role in the state’s ecosystems by controlling rodent and insect populations and serving as a food source for other wildlife. While many people feel apprehensive, most Arkansas snakes are harmless. Understanding these species and safe interaction fosters coexistence.
Venomous Snakes of Arkansas
Arkansas has six venomous snake species, with four being particularly notable.
The Southern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) is widely distributed across the state, characterized by gray, tan, or light brown coloration with distinctive dark, hourglass-shaped crossbands. They prefer mixed pine-hardwood forests and rocky fields, often freezing in place as a defense rather than striking. Copperhead venom, though painful and requiring medical attention, is rarely fatal.
The Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) is frequently found in aquatic environments like swamps, oxbow lakes, and drainage ditches. It appears dark olive-brown to black with indistinct crossbands and a white upper lip. When threatened, they may open their mouths wide to display the white lining as a warning. Their venom is cytotoxic, affecting tissue, and their semi-aquatic lifestyle is unique among the state’s venomous species.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a large pit viper found throughout Arkansas, often in dense forests, rocky outcrops, and hillsides. They exhibit a yellowish-brown to gray base color with dark, V-shaped crossbands; their tail often ends in a distinct black section, earning them the nickname “velvet-tail rattler.” They use their characteristic rattle as a warning when disturbed, though generally docile and primarily ambush predators, helping control rodent populations.
The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius streckeri) is the smallest venomous snake in the state, typically 15 to 20 inches long. It is gray or light brown with irregular dark blotches and sometimes a reddish stripe. Its tiny rattle produces a faint buzzing sound, often compared to an insect, audible only a few feet away. They favor woodlands, marshes, and rocky areas, often using brightly colored tail tips to lure prey, especially when young.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes
Arkansas hosts numerous non-venomous snakes, many of which are commonly encountered and play beneficial ecosystem roles.
The Western Rat Snake (Pantherophis obsoletus) is among the most common, often found in residential areas and barns due to its diet of rodents. They vary widely in color, with adults often becoming dark or black, and are excellent climbers.
Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are common, known for their slender bodies and striped patterns. They are harmless to humans. These adaptable snakes are found in various habitats, from woodlands to suburban gardens.
Kingsnakes, like the Speckled Kingsnake (Lampropeltis holbrooki), prey on other snakes, including venomous ones. They have a black body covered in small yellow or white speckles, giving them a “salt-and-pepper” appearance. They are often found under rocks, logs, or in woodpiles and are docile.
Several Water Snake species (Nerodia species) are abundant in Arkansas, often mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth due to their similar appearance and aquatic habitats. Species like the Diamond-backed or Plain-bellied Water Snake are brown or olive with patterns that can include diamond shapes or broad bands. While non-venomous, they may flatten their heads or strike if threatened, and their bites can bleed more than expected.
Distinguishing Features for Identification
Accurately identifying a snake can be challenging, but focusing on general characteristics can help differentiate between venomous and non-venomous species in Arkansas.
Pit vipers have a triangular or wedge-shaped head that is distinctly wider than their neck. Non-venomous snakes have a more rounded or oval head that blends smoothly with their body.
Eye pupils are another distinguishing feature. Venomous pit vipers have vertical, elliptical pupils (cat-like) in bright light; non-venomous snakes have round pupils. Pit vipers also have a heat-sensing pit between each eye and nostril. While these features help, they are not foolproof, especially from a distance or with juveniles, and should not encourage close-range inspection.
Safe Encounters and Coexistence
Encountering a snake can be startling, but reacting appropriately can ensure safety for both humans and the snake. The best course of action is to observe the snake from a respectful distance, never attempting to handle, provoke, or kill it. Most snake bites occur when people try to interact with or remove a snake. If a snake is encountered, slowly backing away gives it space to retreat.
To minimize snake encounters around homes and yards, maintain a tidy outdoor environment. Removing brush piles, firewood stacks, and other debris eliminates hiding spots for snakes and their prey. Keeping grass mowed short and sealing cracks or openings in foundations and around pipes can prevent snakes from entering structures. Controlling rodent populations also reduces a primary food source that might attract snakes.
In the rare event of a snake bite, immediate medical attention is necessary. Keeping the bitten limb still and positioned below heart level can help. It is important to remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bite site before swelling begins. Avoid traditional first aid measures such as applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out venom, as these methods are ineffective and can cause more harm. The most important step is to get to a hospital quickly; there is no need to capture or kill the snake for identification, as medical professionals can treat bites effectively without it.