Alabama is home to approximately 40 to 50 different snake species, inhabiting the state’s varied landscapes. These reptiles play an important role in the local ecosystem, often helping to control populations of rodents and insects. Snakes are present across all regions, from the northern mountains to the Gulf Coast, showcasing a range of sizes, behaviors, and adaptations. Understanding these animals can help people appreciate their ecological contributions and coexist peacefully.
Venomous Snakes of Alabama
Six types of venomous snakes are native to Alabama: five pit vipers and one elapid. Pit vipers, which include rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths, possess heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils. The Eastern Copperhead is the most commonly encountered venomous snake in Alabama, found statewide, measuring two to three feet in length with a stout body and a copper-colored head. Its body patterning features dark brown, hourglass-shaped crossbands on a lighter background, which can be tan or russet.
Three species of rattlesnakes are found in Alabama: the Eastern Diamondback, Timber (or Canebrake), and Pygmy Rattlesnake. The Eastern Diamondback is the largest venomous snake in North America, growing up to seven feet, with dark diamond patterns outlined in yellow or cream on an olive to dark brown body. It primarily inhabits the southern parts of the state. The Timber Rattlesnake, widespread across Alabama, is a heavy-bodied snake reaching up to five feet, displaying dark chevron patterns over a lighter tan or gray background.
The Pygmy Rattlesnake is a smaller species, around two feet long, found in southern regions and identifiable by its light gray or tan color with dark blotches. Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, are semi-aquatic pit vipers common throughout Alabama, especially near water sources. They are olive or dark brown with wide, dark crossbands, and adults can reach three to four feet.
The Eastern Coral Snake is the sixth venomous species, a relative of cobras, recognized by its distinctive red, yellow, and black rings. In Alabama, the red bands touch the yellow bands, a key distinguishing feature from non-venomous mimics. This snake has a small head, round pupils, and measures between two to three feet.
Common Non-Venomous Snakes of Alabama
Alabama’s landscape supports many non-venomous snake species that play beneficial roles. Rat snakes, such as the Eastern Rat Snake and Gray Rat Snake, are common throughout the state. The Eastern Rat Snake, which can grow up to six feet long, is black with a white belly in adults, though juveniles may have gray bodies with dark blotches. These snakes are adept climbers and help control rodent populations in barns, attics, and wooded areas.
Eastern Kingsnakes are black snakes with thin yellow or white bands along their bodies, ranging from three to five feet in length. They are known for their immunity to venom, allowing them to prey on other snakes, including venomous ones. Garter snakes, like the Eastern Garter Snake, are small and slender, under three feet, with yellow or white stripes running down their olive, brown, or black bodies. They are found in gardens, fields, and near water, feeding on insects, earthworms, and small fish.
The Rough Green Snake is a slender, bright green snake, two to three feet long, that primarily inhabits trees and shrubs where it hunts insects and spiders. Corn snakes, also known as red rat snakes, are medium-sized with orange or reddish bodies marked by black-bordered red blotches. They can be confused with copperheads but lack the triangular head and hourglass markings characteristic of venomous species. Eastern Hognose Snakes are another non-venomous species, recognizable by their upturned snouts and broad heads. They mimic venomous snakes by flattening their heads and hissing when threatened, though they pose no danger to humans.
Identifying Snakes in Alabama
Differentiating between venomous and non-venomous snakes in Alabama involves observing several key characteristics, though some non-venomous species can mimic venomous ones. Pit vipers possess a triangular-shaped head, a distinct neck, and vertical, cat-like pupils. They also have a heat-sensing pit. In contrast, most non-venomous snakes have a more rounded head and round pupils.
Another distinguishing feature can be found on the underside of the tail. Pit vipers have a single row of scales from the vent to the tail tip, while most non-venomous snakes have a double row of scales. However, the Eastern Coral Snake, despite being venomous, also has round pupils and a double row of scales under its tail, similar to non-venomous species. Its unique color pattern, with red bands touching yellow bands, is the identification cue for this species.
Some non-venomous snakes, like the hognose snake, can flatten their heads to appear more triangular, and many non-venomous snakes may shake their tails when agitated, mimicking rattlesnakes. Relying on multiple characteristics for identification is recommended, and exercising caution is advised.
Safety and Encounters
Coexisting safely with snakes in Alabama involves understanding their behavior and taking preventative measures. To minimize encounters around homes, it helps to keep yards tidy by clearing brush piles, tall grass, and debris that can serve as shelter. Eliminating potential food sources for snakes, such as rodents, by securing trash and cleaning up spilled birdseed, can deter them. Sealing any entry points into homes or outbuildings prevents snakes from seeking shelter indoors.
If a snake is encountered, the safest approach is to give it space and avoid attempting to handle or kill it. Most snake bites occur when people try to interact with the snake. If a snake is in an undesirable location, such as a yard, it can be encouraged to move away by gently spraying it with a water hose from a safe distance. Snakes will try to escape rather than confront.
In the event of a snake bite, immediate medical attention is needed. Call 911 or the Alabama Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. While awaiting medical help:
- Remain calm and keep the bitten area still and below the heart level.
- Remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the affected limb before swelling begins.
- Clean the wound gently with soap and water, then cover it loosely with a clean, dry bandage.
- Do not attempt to cut the wound, suck out the venom, apply ice, or use a tourniquet, as these actions can cause further harm.
- Identifying the snake from a safe distance, possibly with a photograph, can assist medical professionals, but never risk another bite for identification.