Indiana’s diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, support numerous snake species. These reptiles play a role in the state’s natural biodiversity.
Venomous Species in Indiana
Indiana is home to a few venomous snake species, all pit vipers. The Northern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen) is found in the southern half of the state, often in rocky, wooded hillsides. It displays a coppery-orange or reddish-brown head and hourglass-shaped, dark brown bands against a lighter background. Copperheads typically reach 2 to 3 feet.
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a venomous species residing mainly in south-central forested regions. These large snakes can grow over 4 feet long, exhibiting color variations from yellow to dark brown or black, often with dark chevron-shaped crossbands. A distinctive rattle at the tail’s end produces a warning sound. They prefer rugged, forested areas and hibernate in dens.
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is found primarily in the northern third of the state. This smaller rattlesnake, typically 2 to 3 feet long, inhabits wetlands like bogs and wet prairies. Its body is usually gray or light brown with distinct dark brown or black blotches. Like other pit vipers, it possesses heat-sensing pits between its eyes and nostrils.
Diverse Non-Venomous Snakes
Most snakes in Indiana are non-venomous and play various ecosystem roles. Garter snakes, such as the Common Gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis), are widespread and found in nearly all habitats. They are slender, typically 18 inches to 4 feet long, and often have three light stripes down their dark bodies. They prey on earthworms, amphibians, and small fish.
Black Rat Snakes (Pantherophis obsoletus) are common in wooded areas and excellent climbers, often found in trees or barns. These constrictors can reach over 5 feet, usually uniformly black as adults. Their diet primarily consists of rodents and birds.
Common Water Snakes (Nerodia sipedon) are observed near rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are robust, typically 2 to 4 feet long, with variable patterns including dark bands or blotches. These aquatic snakes feed on fish and amphibians.
Milk Snakes (Lampropeltis triangulum) are recognized by distinct patterns of red or reddish-brown blotches outlined in black. They are medium-sized, generally under 4 feet, and found in forests, fields, and suburban areas, preying on rodents, birds, and other snakes. King Snakes (Lampropeltis getula) are also constrictors. The Black Kingsnake (Lampropeltis nigra), found in Indiana, is typically black with some yellow or white speckling.
Smooth Green Snakes (Opheodrys vernalis) are small, slender snakes, usually under 2 feet, with bright green coloration. They have smooth scales and primarily feed on insects like crickets and grasshoppers. The Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos) is another non-venomous species with a distinctive upturned snout. It defends itself by flattening its head, hissing, and playing dead.
Identifying Indiana Snakes
Identifying snakes in Indiana involves observing several characteristics. Pit vipers, which include all venomous snakes in Indiana, have heat-sensing pits between their eye and nostril. Non-venomous snakes lack these pits.
Venomous pit vipers typically have elliptical pupils, appearing as vertical slits. Most non-venomous snakes have round pupils. Pit vipers often have a broad, triangular head that appears distinctly wider than their neck. Many non-venomous snakes have a more streamlined head that blends smoothly with their body.
A rattle at the tail’s end is a clear sign of a rattlesnake. Some non-venomous snakes, like the Eastern Hognose Snake, can mimic venomous species by flattening their heads or vibrating their tails. Observing from a safe distance is important, as misidentification can be dangerous.
Habitats and Safe Encounters
Snakes in Indiana occupy a variety of habitats. Forests, wetlands, and grasslands are common areas, with species like the Timber Rattlesnake preferring rugged, forested terrain. Many non-venomous species, such as Garter Snakes and Water Snakes, are found in residential areas, gardens, and near bodies of water.
When encountering a snake, observing from a safe distance is the best approach. Snakes are generally not aggressive and only bite if threatened or provoked. Avoid handling, harassing, or capturing a snake, as most bites occur then. If a snake is in an undesirable location, allow it to move away or contact animal control or a wildlife professional.
Understanding the role snakes play in the ecosystem can promote coexistence. Maintaining a tidy yard by removing brush piles, tall grass, and debris can discourage snakes near homes.