Mississippi’s temperate climate and diverse geographic features, including the Gulf Coast, pine savannas, and extensive waterways, support approximately 55 different species and subspecies of snakes across the state. While most are harmless, a few are venomous and require respect. Understanding local species is the first step toward safe coexistence and appreciating their role in the ecosystem.
Identifying the Venomous Species
Mississippi is home to six venomous snake species. Five are pit vipers (family Viperidae), characterized by a heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril, large triangular heads, and vertical pupils. The three rattlesnake species are all pit vipers, recognizable by the interlocking keratin segments forming the rattle at the end of their tails.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest and heaviest venomous snake in North America, averaging four to five and a half feet long. It has a distinct pattern of dark brown or black diamonds outlined by lighter scales. This species primarily inhabits the dry, sandy pine savannas and flatwoods of southern Mississippi.
The Timber Rattlesnake, also called the Canebrake Rattlesnake, is found throughout most of the state in forested areas and river bottoms. Its color ranges from gray to tan, often with a pinkish undertone and dark, wavy crossbands. Distinctive features include a narrow, rusty-red stripe down the center of its back and a uniformly velvet-black tail.
The Pigmy Rattlesnake is the smallest rattler, typically reaching 18 to 20 inches. Its tiny rattle produces a faint, buzzing sound that is often difficult to hear. It is generally grayish-brown with a row of dark, rounded spots down its back and is found in pine flatwoods and swamp environments.
The Copperhead is frequently encountered in hardwood forests, old fields, and suburban gardens. It is easily recognized by its light tan or brownish body overlaid with darker, hourglass-shaped crossbands. These bands are often described as resembling “Hershey’s Kisses” when viewed from the side.
The Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin, is the most aquatic pit viper, found in virtually all wetlands, swamps, and ditches. Adults are heavy-bodied and can be dark olive, brown, or nearly black, often obscuring their crossband pattern. When threatened, it gapes its mouth wide, displaying the pale, cotton-white interior that gives the snake its name.
The Eastern Coral Snake is the only venomous species in Mississippi that is not a pit viper; it belongs to the Elapidae family (which includes cobras). This slender snake is brightly banded with alternating rings of red, yellow, and black. A helpful rhyme for distinguishing it from non-venomous mimics is: “Red touches yellow, kills a fellow,” referring to the adjacent red and yellow bands.
The Most Common Non-Venomous Snakes
The vast majority of snakes in Mississippi are non-venomous and play a beneficial role in controlling rodent populations. Several harmless species are frequently mistaken for their venomous counterparts. Learning to identify these common snakes promotes appreciation for local wildlife.
Rat Snakes, such as the Gray Rat Snake and the Corn Snake, are common and often large, leading to confusion with rattlesnakes. These long, slender snakes are excellent climbers and serve as effective pest control by preying on rodents and birds. When cornered, a Rat Snake may shake its tail rapidly in dry leaves, creating a sound that mimics a rattlesnake’s warning.
King Snakes, including the Speckled King Snake and the Scarlet King Snake, are known for their unique diet, which includes other snakes, even venomous ones. The Black King Snake is immune to pit viper venom and actively hunts them. The Scarlet King Snake is a harmless mimic of the Eastern Coral Snake, sharing the red, black, and yellow banding.
The Scarlet King Snake’s pattern is recalled with the rhyme: “Red touches black, friend of Jack.” This non-venomous species has red bands adjacent to black bands, a distinct reversal from the deadly Coral Snake. Additionally, the Scarlet King Snake has a red snout, while the venomous Coral Snake’s snout is black.
Water Snakes (genus Nerodia), such as the Diamond-backed and Broad-banded Water Snakes, are the most common non-venomous snakes mistaken for the Cottonmouth. They are thick-bodied and dark-colored, often flattening their heads and bodies when threatened to appear triangular like a pit viper. However, water snakes have a more slender body relative to their length, and their heads are not distinctly wider than their necks.
Safe Encounters and Coexistence
While specific patterns and colors aid identification, broad physical characteristics offer clues. Pit vipers (all venomous snakes except the Coral Snake) generally have a thick, heavy body and a head noticeably wider than the neck. They also possess a single row of scales along the underside of the tail, whereas non-venomous native species have a double row.
Pit vipers have vertical, cat-like pupils, while non-venomous snakes have round pupils. However, this trait is difficult to observe and unreliable, as round pupils can dilate and appear vertical in low light. The most reliable features remain the presence of a rattle or the unique color banding of the Coral Snake.
Snakes naturally avoid humans and typically flee or remain motionless when approached. Bites usually occur when a snake is accidentally stepped on or when a person attempts to handle or kill it. Maintaining a clean yard by removing debris, woodpiles, and tall grass eliminates hiding places for snakes and their prey.
When recreating outdoors, wearing sturdy, high-topped shoes and long pants offers protection. If a snake is encountered, the safest action is to give it a wide berth and allow it to leave the area. In the event of a bite, remain calm and seek immediate medical attention.