Louisiana is home to a diverse array of snake species, with over 50 different types inhabiting the state’s varied landscapes. This rich reptilian population includes both venomous and non-venomous snakes, each playing a role in the local ecosystem. Understanding these creatures contributes to appreciating the natural world around us.
Understanding Louisiana’s Snake Diversity
Louisiana’s warm, humid climate and diverse ecosystems create an ideal environment for a wide range of snake species. The state features extensive wetland swamps, dense forests, open grasslands, and even urban areas, all providing suitable habitats. This variety of environments supports a high number of snake species, allowing them to thrive across different regions of the state.
Snakes are an important component of Louisiana’s natural heritage and contribute to the balance of nature. They serve as predators, helping to control populations of insects and rodents. Snakes also act as prey for various other animals, making them a part of the broader food chain. While some species are often encountered near human habitation, others prefer more secluded natural settings.
Venomous Snakes of Louisiana
Louisiana is home to seven venomous snake species, which belong to two main families: pit vipers and coral snakes. Pit vipers, including copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes, possess heat-sensing pits on their heads that help them detect prey. Coral snakes, on the other hand, are known for their distinct color patterns.
Eastern copperheads are medium-sized snakes typically ranging from 20 to 37 inches in length. They have a stout body and a broad head, with coloration varying from pale tan to pinkish-tan and darker, hourglass-shaped bands along their bodies. These snakes are often found in deciduous forests and mixed woodlands, particularly near rocky outcroppings, and can be active during the day in cooler weather or at night during warmer periods.
Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, are semi-aquatic pit vipers commonly encountered in and near swamps, lakes, and other bodies of water. They have a thick body and a distinct triangular head. When threatened, they may display the white interior of their mouth, giving them their common name.
Three species of rattlesnakes inhabit Louisiana: the eastern diamondback, timber (canebrake), and pygmy rattlesnake. The eastern diamondback is the largest and heaviest snake in Louisiana, often reaching lengths of six feet, though some can grow up to eight feet. They are primarily nocturnal and prefer drier areas like scrublands or woodlands, recognizable by their distinctive black pattern on their faces and diamond patterns down their backs.
Timber rattlesnakes, also known as canebrake rattlesnakes, can grow to about five feet long and are found across the state in forested areas, farms, and lowland thickets. Their coloring ranges from yellow-gray to black, and they are ambush hunters that primarily feed on small mammals. Pygmy rattlesnakes are smaller, often inhabiting urban areas, which can make encounters more frequent.
Coral snakes in Louisiana include the Texas coral snake and the Eastern coral snake, found in the western and eastern halves of the state, respectively. These snakes are recognized by their black heads and colorful banding of red, yellow, and black, with red bands touching yellow bands. They typically prefer to live mostly underground, making human encounters rare.
Non-Venomous Snakes of Louisiana
Louisiana’s non-venomous snake population is much larger than its venomous one, comprising over 40 species. These snakes play an integral role in the ecosystem, often preying on rodents, insects, and other small animals. Their identification features vary widely, from distinct patterns and colors to different body shapes and sizes.
Eastern kingsnakes are found in various habitats across eastern Louisiana, including forests, agricultural lands, and even suburban areas. They are constrictors known for preying on other snakes, including venomous ones, and typically have a black body with yellow or white bands. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse environments.
Rat snakes, such as the western and gray rat snakes, are common throughout Louisiana. These long, slender snakes vary in color, from nearly black to pale brown, yellowish, or even orange, often with black or brown blotches. They are frequently found in forests, yards, and swamps, making them one of the most commonly encountered snakes in the state.
Garter snakes, including the common garter snake, are widely distributed and easily found in Louisiana, often adapting well to human-populated areas. They are commonly seen in city parks, farmlands, and suburban gardens, preferring grassy environments near freshwater sources. Garter snakes typically have three cream or white stripes running the length of their bodies.
Water snakes, such as the diamond-backed water snake and plain-bellied water snake, are prevalent near Louisiana’s abundant water sources like ponds, swamps, and rivers. Diamond-backed water snakes often prefer slow-moving water with overhanging vegetation and primarily prey on fish and frogs. Plain-bellied water snakes spend more time on land compared to other water snakes and feed on both aquatic and terrestrial prey.
The rough green snake is a slender, bright green snake that blends seamlessly with vegetation, often found in bushes near swamps. Another common non-venomous species is the brown snake (Dekay’s brown snake), which is small, typically under 16 inches long, and can be found in both rural and urban areas, often under leaf piles or in potted plants.
Coexisting Safely with Louisiana Snakes
Understanding how to safely coexist with snakes is important for residents in Louisiana. Most snakes are not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened or are provoked. Maintaining a respectful distance is the most effective way to avoid negative encounters.
To minimize snake encounters around homes, maintaining a tidy yard can be beneficial. This includes avoiding tall grass, removing piles of wood, rocks, or debris, and sealing openings to homes, garages, or sheds. These measures reduce potential hiding spots and entry points for snakes.
If a snake is encountered, it is important to remain calm and observe it from a safe distance. Avoid sudden movements that might startle the snake. The best approach is to slowly back away and allow the snake to move away on its own. Attempting to handle or kill a snake is not advised, as this is when most bites occur.
In the rare event of a snake bite, seeking immediate medical attention is necessary. While awaiting professional medical help, remain calm and try to keep the affected limb still and below the level of the heart. Do not attempt to cut the wound, apply a tourniquet, or try to suck out the venom. Prompt medical care is the only effective treatment for venomous snake bites.