Alabama is home to a diverse population of snakes, but only six species are venomous. The scientifically accurate term is “venomous,” referring to animals that inject toxins through a bite or sting, rather than “poisonous,” which describes toxins ingested or absorbed. These six species belong to two distinct snake families. Recognizing the general characteristics and specific markings of these snakes is essential for safety and awareness when spending time outdoors in the state.
Identifying Alabama’s Pit Vipers
Five of Alabama’s six venomous snakes are classified as pit vipers, a group named for the heat-sensing loreal pits located between the eye and the nostril. This sensory organ allows them to accurately target warm-blooded prey, even in complete darkness. Pit vipers share other general characteristics, including a broad, triangular head shape and vertical, slit-like pupils.
The Eastern Copperhead is the most frequently encountered venomous snake, recognized by its distinctive hourglass-shaped crossbands set against a background of tan or pinkish-brown. These copper-colored bands are wider on the sides and narrower across the back, creating a pattern that provides excellent camouflage in leaf litter. Copperheads are medium-sized, typically reaching two to three feet in length, and are found in a variety of habitats across the state.
The Cottonmouth, often called the Water Moccasin, is North America’s only semi-aquatic viper, found near water sources like swamps, marshes, and river floodplains. Adults often display a dark, olive, or black coloration, which can obscure their crossband pattern. They are identified defensively by opening their mouth to reveal the stark white, cotton-like interior. Juveniles have a more conspicuous pattern similar to the copperhead but with a bright yellow tail tip they use to lure prey.
Two of Alabama’s pit vipers are rattlesnakes, easily identified by the keratinous segments at the end of their tail used to create a warning sound. The Timber Rattlesnake is a large, heavy species that can grow well over four feet, distinguished by dark, V-shaped or chevron-like crossbands on a lighter background. This species prefers forested regions, particularly sparsely settled upland areas and canebrakes.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in North America, known for its heavy build. Its body is covered in a series of dark, brown, or black diamonds outlined by a border of cream or yellow scales. This snake is primarily restricted to the extreme southern portion of Alabama, favoring dry pine forests and coastal sandhill environments. The smallest rattlesnake is the Pygmy Rattlesnake, a slender species reaching less than two feet in length, with a tiny, barely audible rattle.
The Eastern Coral Snake
The sixth venomous species in Alabama is the Eastern Coral Snake, which is not a pit viper and belongs to the Elapidae family. Unlike pit vipers, the coral snake has a small, rounded head, round pupils, and a slender body with smooth, shiny scales. Its venom is primarily neurotoxic, meaning it attacks the nervous system, potentially leading to respiratory failure.
The snake’s coloration consists of bright, alternating bands of red, yellow, and black that fully encircle the body. A common mnemonic device used for identification is “Red on yellow, kill a fellow; red on black, venom lack,” which signifies that the venomous species has red rings touching yellow rings. The coral snake also features a distinctive black snout.
The Eastern Coral Snake delivers its venom through a pair of short, fixed fangs, differing from the retractable, hinged fangs of the pit vipers. This species is secretive and spends much of its time underground in loose, sandy soils. Bites are extremely rare, typically occurring only when the snake is handled or accidentally restrained.
Geographic Distribution and Habitat
The prevalence of Alabama’s venomous snakes varies significantly across the state’s diverse geography. The Eastern Copperhead has the broadest distribution, residing in nearly every county, adapting to deciduous forests, rocky hillsides, and the edges of swamps. Its ability to thrive in disturbed areas makes it a common sight near human habitation.
The Cottonmouth is found throughout the state wherever permanent water sources exist, favoring the slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters of the Coastal Plain and major river systems. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is geographically confined to the dry, sandy habitats of the extreme southern part of Alabama, particularly the longleaf pine-turkey oak ecosystems. Population numbers for the diamondback are significantly lower than other venomous species.
The Timber Rattlesnake is distributed widely in two main habitat types: the lowland canebrakes and swampy areas of the Coastal Plain, and the rugged, forested uplands of the northern regions. The Pygmy Rattlesnake is present throughout the state, often found in both wet and dry pinelands. The Eastern Coral Snake is highly localized, typically found only in the sandy soils of the lower Coastal Plain.
Immediate Action Following a Bite
If a bite from a venomous snake is confirmed or suspected, the immediate step is to call 911 or local emergency medical services. Contacting the national Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 can provide expert guidance. Remaining calm is essential, as an elevated heart rate increases blood circulation and the spread of venom through the body.
The bitten person should restrict movement as much as possible, keeping the affected limb still and positioned at or slightly below the level of the heart to slow the movement of the venom. Remove any restrictive clothing or jewelry, such as rings or watches, from the area before swelling begins. Splinting the limb loosely can help minimize movement without constricting blood flow.
It is crucial to avoid common but harmful folklore treatments. Never cut the wound with a knife or razor in an attempt to drain the venom, as this can cause infection and serious damage to underlying tissue. Do not apply a tourniquet, ice, or cold packs to the bite, as extreme cold can cause localized tissue death. Furthermore, refrain from trying to suck out the venom by mouth or with a suction device, as these methods have been proven ineffective and potentially harmful.