Arkansas, often called the Natural State, is home to a diverse population of snakes. The state’s varied habitats, from the Ozark and Ouachita mountains to the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, support approximately 40 native snake species. While many people react with apprehension to their presence, most of these reptiles are non-venomous and play a beneficial role in the local ecosystem. Understanding which species inhabit the region, particularly the few that pose a risk, is important for safely enjoying the state’s natural beauty.
The Venomous Species of Arkansas
Arkansas is home to six venomous snake species; five belong to the pit viper family. The sixth, the Texas Coral Snake, is an elapid and is rarely encountered. All pit vipers possess a heat-sensing pit located between the eye and nostril, which helps them locate prey.
The Copperhead is the most commonly encountered venomous snake, recognized by its tan or brownish coloration overlaid with distinctive hourglass-shaped bands. This species is found statewide in wooded areas, rocky outcrops, and near stream banks. Copperheads often rely on camouflage to avoid detection and tend to remain motionless when threatened, which unfortunately leads to accidental bites when people step near them.
The Cottonmouth, also known as the Water Moccasin, is the only semi-aquatic venomous snake in the state, inhabiting swamps, lakes, and drainage ditches. These snakes are often dark, though juveniles display a brighter cross-banded pattern. When cornered, the Cottonmouth performs a threat display by opening its mouth to reveal the stark white interior that gives it its common name.
The state is also home to three species of rattlesnakes, which are more reclusive. The Timber Rattlesnake is a large species found in forested areas across the state, often exhibiting a gray or yellowish body with dark V-shaped crossbands. The Western Pygmy Rattlesnake is a smaller species found in open brushy lowlands and pine-hardwood forests, possessing a small, faint rattle that is often hard to hear. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is restricted to the southwestern and western central parts of Arkansas, favoring rocky, dry habitats.
The Texas Coral Snake is a secretive species found almost exclusively in the southwestern corner of the state. This snake is highly distinct with its brightly colored bands of red, black, and yellow. Unlike the pit vipers, the Coral Snake possesses neurotoxic venom, though its small size and tendency to hide underground make bites exceedingly rare.
The Harmless Majority: Common Non-Venomous Snakes
The majority of Arkansas snakes are non-venomous and perform an important service as natural pest control agents. These snakes help maintain a healthy ecological balance by preying on rodents, insects, and other small animals. Their presence near human habitation is often an indication of a robust, healthy local environment.
Kingsnakes, such as the Speckled Kingsnake, are a beneficial group known for their diet that includes other snakes, even venomous ones, to whose venom they are immune. These constrictors are often found near barns and fields where they hunt small mammals. Rat Snakes, including the Texas Rat Snake, are long, slender, and excellent climbers, frequently found in trees or rafters where they consume rodents and bird eggs.
Several species of Water Snakes are commonly found near lakes and rivers, and they are frequently mistaken for the venomous Cottonmouth. These non-venomous species, such as the Diamond-backed Water Snake, primarily feed on fish and amphibians. Garter Snakes are also common and are often seen in yards and gardens, feeding on earthworms and slugs.
A unique non-venomous resident is the Eastern Hognose Snake, which has a dramatic defensive display. When threatened, it will flatten its neck like a cobra and hiss loudly, earning it the nickname “puff adder.” If this intimidation fails, the Hognose will roll over and play dead, often emitting a foul musk to complete the act.
Safe Coexistence and Identification Tips
Distinguishing between the venomous pit vipers and harmless species is a helpful first step for safe coexistence. Pit vipers typically have a broad, triangular-shaped head distinct from their neck, and they possess vertically elliptical pupils, similar to a cat’s eye in bright light. Conversely, most non-venomous snakes have a rounded head shape and round pupils.
Another identifying trait is the presence of a single row of scales on the underside of a pit viper’s tail past the vent, while non-venomous snakes have a double row of scales. For the rare Coral Snake, a simple rhyme based on the color pattern is often used to distinguish it from non-venomous mimics. However, since coloration can vary, focusing on behavior and distance is always the safest approach.
The best safety protocol is to assume any snake is venomous and leave it alone. To avoid encounters, people should clear brush and debris from around their homes and always watch where they place their hands and feet when outdoors. Never step over a log or rock without checking the other side first. If a bite does occur, remain calm and seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services. Local wildlife experts, such as the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, advise against attempting to treat the bite yourself.