Under no circumstances should you cut between the punctures, or suck the venom out or apply electric shock. The prairie rattlesnake is a slender rattler that is greenish or grayish, with rounded blotches down the middle of its back. Copyright 2023 Click2Houston.com is managed by Graham Digital and published by Graham Media Group, a division of Graham Holdings. Its best not to handle it as the Plan-bellied Watersnake is aggressive and it will bite given the chance, albeit without any venom. The snakes constrict their prey. Antivenin has been created against the species eliminating death cases following its bite. This is especially important for coral snakes because the treatments differ significantly from those to treat copperhead, cottonmouth or rattlesnake bites. They may be difficult to identify as they come in multiple colors with or without stripes. Yellow-bellied Water Snake: These snakes have keeled scales, round pupils and a stock body with a yellow belly. Frank said homeowners should also take precautions to reduce the chance of their pet encountering a snake, such as having them on a leash during walks. The species is nonvenomous and its a common sight around the state due to its diurnal habits. Copperheads have thicker bodies and no rattle. Rough Earthsnakes populate vast Southern Texas habitats. Part of the garter snake genus, the Western Ribbon Snake is identified by its small green body with yellow-white stripes. They are tan, black or brown but can have orange, yellow, gray, olive or red coloring. This snake is closely related to the Diamondback Water Snake. It . All non-indigenous (species not native to Texas) venomous snakes and the following constrictors: African rock python (Python sebae), . The Eastern Patch-nosed Snake gets its name from the large scale on the top of its snout. When threatened these snakes will coil or raise its head and flatten its body to try and appear larger. They are found in the eastern third of the state in wooded areas in wet bottomlands. The vast majority of these snakes arenon-venomous. Here are 50 non-venomous snakes that can be found in Texas. These snakes are found in rocky areas and wooded bottomlands and are rare in dry areas. Emergency and critical care can be expensive, she said. Common name: Middle American indigo snake, blacktail cribo, central American indigo snake. Never step over a log without first seeing what is on the other side. The range of hog-nosed snakes covers most of Texas. ypically 20 to 30 inches (51 to 76cm) in length. This is a non-venomous, medium sized water snake that you'll find in ponds, swamps, rivers, and lakes. Most Glossy snakes arent very active during the day as they prefer to catch lizards at night. It's smaller and more slender and found in the Trans-Pecos, western Panhandle and the lower Rio Grande Valley. But, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, only 15 of those are potentially dangerous to humans. The dark-brown Striped Whipsnake grows to a size of over 70 inches. The Broad-banded Copperhead snake is a brown and tan banded venomous species also found in Texas. Use a flashlight when moving about, even in your home yard, at night. The Eastern Hognose Snake grows up to 41 inches and its distinguished by its wide body. These snakes are seen crossing the road in the summer in many parts of Texas and other parts of the Eastern US. This snake lives at various altitudes and its one of the most venomous snakes in the US and the most venomous Rattlesnake in the country. The snake is aggressive when cornered or captured biting without warning. Copperhead snake Copperheads Agkistrodon contortrix Copperheads have chestnut or reddish-brown crossbands on a lighter colored body. While nocturnal, the snake is still seen around Texas, particularly on roads that pass through rocky terrains. The body is marked with broad red and black bands inter-spaced with narrow yellow bands. Typically, when they get to us our focus is pain management, Nagy said. Common non-venomous species found throughout Texas include garter snakes, which people also refer to as garden snakes; rat snakes, also known as chicken snakes; and bull snakes. It should be avoided as its venom attacks both the tissues it has bitten such as muscles as well as the nervous system. pic.twitter.com/cF6JGCb9Ei, Distribution: Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, South, Southwest, Southern Water Snake enjoying the sun after relatively cool day yesterday in East Texas begins storm system @accuweather pic.twitter.com/rs0bPzBsyY, Distribution: Canada, Southwest, Midwest, Northwest, Northeast, South, Distribution: Southeast, South, Northeast, Distribution: Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, South, Canada, Northwest, Distribution: Canada, Midwest, Northeast, Northwest, Southwest, South, Distribution: Midwest, Northeast, Southwest, South, Distribution: Southeast, Midwest, South, Northeast. Humans need to be cautious of only 15 percent of Texas snakes, according to TPWD. Venomous and non-venomous snake species are the most common in Texas as follows. Keeping these things in mind provides us with guidelines to help prevent snakebite around the home. Afterward, the snake gets back on its belly moving along with or without making hissing sounds. Only 15 of those are potentially dangerous to humans," the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department's site explains. Instead, you should learn to identify the species that live in your area. Some examples are the bull snake ,emerald tree boa, red rat snake, western hognose, california kingsnake, and the garter snake. Regardless of the snakes posture, look at the tail for identification: instead of a dark or black-and-white banded tail tipped with rattles, bull snakes have pointed, yellow-tan tails with reddish bands and no rattles. One of the most common snakes that can be found across all of Texas is the Checkered Garter Snake. Treat tools and materials stored on the floor as possible snake shelters. Mojave Rattlesnakes have a known desert habitat across multiple US states and Mexico. Offspring come out at a length of almost 10 inches. In contrast, cottonmouths have a wide head but narrow neck. This smell is released when facing a threat. 'Gotham Knights' kills Batman and replaces him with moody teens, This Houston rodeo food vendor wants you to eat his rattlesnake. Central American Indigo snakes are found across Southern parts of Texas. Cutting the grass, removing brush and debris, and trimming the lower branches on bushes and trees will go a long way in reducing the places a snake might want to hide.. There are dozens of snake species that call Texas home, and many of them are non-venomous. They have a slender body with a pattern of large dark patches. Some deaths were reported following Texas Coralsnake bites. Snakes and frogs are the main part of this snakes diet. leucostoma). The Flathead snake can in flower beds and compost piles. Just like the Rough Green Snake, the Rough Earth Snake is also commonly seen in the state of Texas. Known for its small to medium body size, this type of snake has a diet based on slugs and snails. Because snakes are cold-blooded, they prefer sun and/or stretching out on warm surfaces like rocks, pavement and other heat-absorbing materials when temperatures are cooler. Western Ratsnakes have a varied diet, mainly comprised of vertebrates such as rats and young rabbits. This green-white species is known to live in grasslands around the state. The Diamondback Watersnake is known for its rough body due to its keeled scales. These snakes are known for having a docile temper and they can be handled without biting. Broad Banded Water Snakes: They stay around water. They also consume small turtles. Eastern Black-tailed Rattlesnakes live long lives. Snakes of the genus only come out at night. The preference for soft soils is influenced by the almost burrowing nature of these snakes. While known as one of the fastest snakes in the state, its daytime hunting activities make it a common sight in areas with dense vegetation. These snakes have teeth but they dont bite. The species is known to be dimorphic which means females are larger than males. For some, coming across a 72-inch snake can be a terrifying experience, but Houstonians don't have much to worry about. The range of species and likelihood of an encounter differ from region to region and specific locations. Common name: Ring-necked snake, ringneck snake. The timber rattlesnake,also known as Canebreak rattlesnake, is a large, heavy-bodied snake averaging 4.5'. The Eastern Copperhead is one of the best-researched venomous snakes also found in Texas. The Northern Cottonmouth is one of the snakes that has adapted well to living in the Gulf Coast barrier islands and the Southern US. Its best to take the habitat approach and remove the things that attract snakes, she said. The species venom is treated medically with antivenin. This is due, in part, to increasing awareness of snakes around us, developing and improved first aid and medical practices, and excellent educational and outreach efforts by herpetologists and snake enthusiasts across the state. Western Ribbon Snake: These harmless snakes have slender necks and bodies, with brown to black coloring and three lines running down the back, with the boldest yellow to orange stripe over the spine They are typically 20 to 30 inches in length. In addition to several types of rattlesnakes, the other venomous snakes in Texas are the copperhead snake, coral snake, and the western cottonmouth snake. They are known for carrying live young. When you encounter a snake, its best to just leave it alone, she said. List of non-venomous snakes in Texas Nerodia Erythrogaster - Plain-Bellied Water Snake The plain-bellied watersnake is a nonvenomous snake most commonly found in or near water in the Southeastern United States. It feeds on various amphibians and juvenile snakes. The Western Massasauga is one of the most venomous types of snakes in the state. This gray and brown snake prefers to hide below shrubs and bushes during periods of inactivity. Nonvenomous snakes have round pupils. There are around 75 snake species in the Lone Star State, but only about a dozen are venomous. This snake cannot bite people as it has a very small mouth. The Eastern Black-tailed Rattlesnake is a small to medium-sized venomous rattlesnake-family species found in Texas. Rutter said snake bites are one reason she recommends pet insurance for emergencies. The cottonmouth gets its name from the white tissue inside its mouth, which it displays when threatened. Our number 5 pick is the rat snake, which is large in size, very common, and mostly harmless to humans. A Blotched Water Snake can be highly defensive and may strike out if someone gets too close. There are two groups of rattlesnakes: The more primitive forms belong to the genus Sistrurus. Prairie Kingsnakes are known to be among the multiple species in Texas that can release a foul smell. As their name implies, though, plain-bellied water snakes lack patterning on their undersides, which may be pale to bright yellow. Signs of a snake bite can include localized pain, bruising and swelling, or one or two small wounds trickling blood, she said. While found in neighborhoods often, they are completely harmless to people and pets. Reducing hiding spots for snakes will also reduce hiding spots for the prey they seek, like rats and mice, she said. They are large snakes, with an average length of 5'-6' and thick, heavy bodies. They are bright green, and adults can reach up to three feet long. Prairie Kingsnakes arent venomous. But turning on lights at night, checking the backyard area and/or making noise to announce your presence and giving snakes 20-30 seconds to leave are good starting points. Desert Kingsnakes are known to eat a wide range of mammals and even other snakes. Darvin says these snakes do resemble a non-venomous snake, called the Yellow Belly Water snake. Discover how snakes help gardeners by keeping rodents and other pests under control. A Texas A&M AgriLife-led study will look at increasing populations of the endangered cat. Some people even used it to control the species of other snakes on farms. Water snakes occur in suitable habitat throughout most of Texas. Maureen Frank, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service wildlife specialist, Uvalde, said snakes, whether we like them or fear them, are active around the house and in their natural habitats this time of year. These snakes are known to roll over and stay still with mouths open as the last line of defense against predators. They prefer to flee when meeting people. Eastern Yellow-Bellied Racer: These snakes have olive brown to gray coloring with bright yellow bellies. The Diamondback Watersnake is highly aggressive towards people. Common name: Blue rattlesnake, Eastern rock rattlesnake, green rattlesnake, little green rattlesnake, pink rattlesnake, rock rattlesnake, Texas rock rattlesnake, and white rattlesnake. Texas Coral Snake. They squeeze prey until their cardiovascular system is suppressed, killing the prey before eating it. This species is tied to grasslands and woodlands where its green coloring acts as camouflage. Rough green snakes prefer to prey on small insects, especially crickets and grasshoppers. Many non venomous snakes are constrictors. These snakes are harmless to humans, even if their bites hurt. are poisonous and should be avoided. Bull snakes are sometimes called gopher snakes. He went on to serve three U.S. presidents and hold numerous leadership positions in the 45 years that followed. The brightly colored Texas coral snake is the state's only member of the Elapidae family, which includes the cobras of Asia and Africa. Ring-necked snakes are smaller than the average Texas species. The snake is known for its dark olive-green coloring with cream-yellow stripes that run from head to tail. These are things to consider when you go outside.. As their name indicates, Texas indigo snakes are a shiny dark blue in color, with silver-brown mottling or bands on the front half of the body. If you need help with the Public File, call (713) 778-4745. Coral snakes eat mostly other snakes and small reptiles and are members of the same family of snakes as the cobras of India. The snake is of medium size growing up to 42 inches on average. Do not try to kill it, she said. Of these, the vast majority - including the Texas brown snake, milk snake, and gopher snake - are non-venomous. Coachwhip snakes are often subject to legends such as chasing people. They reach an average of 2 feet long but can get up to 3 feet long. tocky body with an irregular pattern of wide black bands fading to brown and shades of orange or yellow. While not specifically interested in living underground, these snakes prefer to live under rocks, vegetation, and logs. For example, it likes to thrust its head into a fake strike in multiple directions when planning to provoke frogs to exit their hiding spots. They are commonly mistaken for cottonmouths, which are venomous. Keep the victim as calm as possible. This black and white snake has a combination of specks. Joe McDonald/Getty Images/Visuals Unlimited, Suzanne L & Joseph T. Collins/Getty Images/Science Source, Rick & Nora Bowers/Visuals Unlimited, Inc./Getty Images/Visuals Unlimited, with the boldest yellow to orange stripe over the spine. Common name: Timber rattlesnake,canebrake rattlesnake, banded rattlesnake. They prefer to live near the water and are frequently found in neighborhoods. They can climb a tree on the tree trunk without the aid of branches. However, it prefers to live in the vegetation around water sources such as lakes and rivers. Scorpions are also among their favorite foods as they can share the same habitat. This is done together with releasing a foul smell. They can be found in the waters of south central Texas and will release a foul smell if they feel threatened. Common name: Mississippi green watersnake , green watersnake. Growing to a size of around 40 inches, this snake is easy to recognize due to its yellow-orange stripe that runs along its body. Learn about the non-venomous and venomous friends that live with us. Even though these snakes have a small amount of venom in their fangs, they are classified as non-venomous because they dont have enough to cause any harm. Identifying the snake will help veterinarians with treatments, but agitated snakes can be very dangerous, and owners should not attempt to handle or kill them. Dusty Nagy, clinical associate professor in large animal clinical sciences at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at Texas A&M, said she rarely sees snake bites in large ruminant animals including cattle, sheep and goats. Up to 20 live young snakes are born of a female Banded Watersnake each year. They're often mistaken for rattlesnakes. Snakes of the genus always release this foul smell when touched. Common name: Prairie rattlesnake,great plains rattlesnake. Snakes in general, occur around a home for the specific purposes of seeking food and shelter. Yellow Bellied Water Snake. They are 2' in length and found through the middle of the state in grasslands, marshy and swampy areas. They do this in common nests where other females of their species lay eggs as well. Subsequently, question is, can you get in trouble for killing a rattlesnake? Houstonians should still be cautious of any snake they encounter and familiarize themselves with the signs of a venomous snake. Checkered Garter Snakes can reach up to 2 feet long as adults. 9 Non-Venomous Snakes in Texas 1. The TPWD's. Its venom attacks the circulatory system and it often prompts muscle catabolism, a process where certain proteins in the muscles are destroyed. The species is diurnal. 12 pick, Tips for bringing your dog or cat on a flight. Most Gopher Snakes are diurnal. A few species of water snakes also resemble cottonmouths. Snakes are integral to Texas array of regional ecosystems. Copperheads have chestnut or reddish-brown crossbands on a lighter colored body. Ground snakes are mostly seen on loose soil patches at high altitudes. Its preferred habitat has to be close to the water as this is where it finds most of its prey around. There are three subspecies of Copperheads in Texas; Southern copperhead (A.c. contortrix), 20"-30" long and found in the eastern one-third of the state; Broadbanded copperhead (A.c. laticinctus), about 2' long, widely scattered in central and western Texas; and the Trans-Pecos copperhead (A.c. pictigaster), 20"-30" in length and found near springs in the southern part of the Trans-Pecos. These Water Snakes are closely related to the Blotched Water Snake, and just like them, they have often been confused for cottonmouth snakes. These snakes first bite without inserting venom or by inserting a small amount of venom. Use tools like a shovel or the tip of a boot. Texas indigo snakes are found in south Texas, in brushy habitat near a watersource. This type of snake also resembles the Scarlet King Snake, which is also non-venomous. This type of snake regularly feeds on frogs and fish, and the dark brown coloring and markings make this snake frequently confused for a cottonmouth snake. They need to know they shouldnt reach into a place if they cant see what might be in there, she said. Common name: Trans-pecos ratsnake, Davis Mountain ratsnake. They average 3.5' in length and are found from Central Texas throughout most of West Texas in bushes and on rocky ledges. Heavy footwear, snake proof trousers and/or leggings will help reduce your risk. They emerge as potential predators that eat mammals and even other venomous snakes. It can release a musky odor as well to repel predators. North American Racers are adapted to agricultural fields, grassland, and suburban areas as they dont shy away from people. These 9 non-venomous snakes are the most common ones found in Texas. They have a stocky body with an irregular pattern of wide black bands fading to brown and shades of orange or yellow. If you must move, back slowly and carefully away from the snake. Toads and predatory birds such as hawks eat the snake. As Coral snakes, the Long-nosed Snake has a short slender body. Call today to book a tour: 214.428.7476! Even though most species are non-venomous, Frank said her best advice is to avoid contact with any snake. Snakes on a plain, in a desert, and in the water . This can include eggs, lizards, smaller snakes, mice, and rats. consuming a wide number of eggs of various species, prefer saltwater habitats and areas near saltwater, 37 Caterpillars in Michigan (Pictures and Identification), 20 Snakes With Bands (Pictures and Identification), 38 Common Caterpillars in Florida (Pictures And Identification), 51 Wildflowers in Georgia (Pictures and Identification), 53 Common Blue Wildflowers (Pictures and Identification). If you do come across a venomous snake, the chances of being bitten are low; only two, to three, deaths are reported in Texas each year from snakebites,according to the TPWD. First things first. Since venomous snakes are common in the rural areas of Texas, it is important for ranchers, hunters, rural residents, outdoor enthusiasts and other that frequent these areas to exercise caution. When it cannot find burrows and nests of other species its still found under piles of leaves, rocks, and ornamental stones in gardens. The more advanced forms of rattlesnakes belong to the genus Crotalus and Texas is home to six. Venomous Snakes In Texas. [RELATED: Venomous snakes in Texas you need to know about], Distribution: Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, South, Distribution: Southeast, Northeast, South, Midwest, Distribution: Southeast, Southwest, Canada, Midwest, Northeast, Northwest, South, Distribution: Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, Northwest, South, Canada, Distribution: Southeast, Midwest, Northeast, South, Southwest, Distribution: Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, South, Canada, Distribution: Canada, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, Northwest, South, Distribution: Southwest, Midwest, Northwest, South, Distribution: Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, South, Northwest, Distribution: Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, South, Northwest, Canada, Distribution: Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, South, #saltmarsh snake! These include: They have stocky bodies with a pattern of large dark blotches down the spine and smaller blotches down the sides. The Speckled Kingsnake is known for its preferences for wetlands. The Latin name piscivorousmeans 'fish eating,' indicating its dietary characteristics. Some of the rarest snakes in the country are found here. The Rough Greensnake is a slender species that grows up to 45 inches. Snakes of the species are also known for consuming a wide number of eggs of various species. Only females are seen during the day as they come out to bask in the sun. Sharp teeth help them grab onto slippery fish efficiently. A distinct trait of its venom is its large venom gland. However, they havent seen hunting or moving around during the day as they only come out at night. Most of the time the bites are not noticed by ranchers unless there is severe swelling due to a secondary infection, she said. See nearly 50 photos of non-venomous snakes that can be found in Texas Western fox snakeThese snakes can grow up to 5 feet long, and are non-venomous. Texas Snake Identification Guide (With Pictures & Charts) by Snake Identifier Checkered Garter Snake (Thamnophis marcianus) Source: Natalie McNear - Under Creative Commons license Diamond-backed Watersnake (Nerodia rhombifer) Source: Natalie McNear - Under Creative Commons license Western Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis proximus) While not as venomous as Cottonmouth snakes, Eastern Copperhead bites with venoms are treated medically with antivenin. Speckled Kingsnakes are further identified by their midrange size. It also eats earthworms, particularly in high humidity habitats. For instance, its much more likely to see a cottonmouth around bodies of water, like ponds, lakes or creeks, as well as bottomlands that maintain high levels of moisture throughout the seasons. They are identified by a mostly orange body with black banding. The black snake is known for its quick movements and the ability to catch fast-moving prey. These 9 non-venomous snakes are the most common ones found in Texas. The State of Texas is home to 15 potentially dangerous snake species or subspecies. For more information, please read our privacy policy. Common name: Banded watersnake,Southern watersnake. This snake is also found in rural areas that are close to water sources. It lives a secretive life underground. Eastern Black-tailed Rattlesnakes can sometimes be difficult to identify as they come in different colors. The following descriptions will help you learn some basic identification tips to help you recognize local venomous snakes. Known for living around the Chihuahuan Desert, this species is recognized for its distinct coloring. But the best advice is to keep your distance and avoid contact.. Most Ground snakes eat insects and spiders. Diamondback Water Snake: These snakes are typically found in and around near bodies of water and will bite if they feel threatened. These snakes are known to prefer saltwater habitats and areas near saltwater. Despite the dramatic show a hognose will put on when you encounter one, they are harmless and are great for eliminating toads, according to TPWD. Milk Snakes can be found all around the state of Texas. NON-VENOMOUS Bull Snake A bull snake may coil up like a rattlesnake, vibrate its tail, flare the sides of its head, and make a raspy hiss that sounds like a rattlesnake's rattle. People handle these snakes all the time. Scarlet and milk snakes look similar, with bold red, black, and pale bands that might be confused with the striking pattern of a coral snake. Others, such as garter snakes and hognose snakes, have very mild venom that doesn't harm humans. They just need a decent description of the snake, or take a photo of it with your cell phone if its safe to do so. Outcomes are typically more survivable with early treatment.. Most members of the species live on the East Coast of Mexico. Most bites occur when a person is trying to handle the snake or trying to kill it. Most commonly, the tricolored body of the species makes some people confuse it with Coral snakes. They averages 3.5'-4.5' in length, but can reach 7'. They are brown or tan with wide, dark crossbands and the tail is entirely black. Lizards and amphibians are part of their preferred diet. First, try to identify the snake species, Frank said. The species is recognized by its faded gray or faded green coloring. This species is still common in Texas but its facing a diminishing habitat and even a threatened status in other states such as Illinois. Coral snakes are found in the southeastern half of Texas in woodlands, canyons and coastal plains. Western Ratsnake Scientific name: Pantherophis obsoletus Common name: Western rat snake, black rat snake, pilot black snake, simply black snake Venomous: No Western Ratsnake The Western Ratsnake is the most common snake species in Texas. While the species is terrestrial, it possesses very good climbing abilities. Venomous and non-venomous snake species are the most common in Texas as follows. While shorter than other species, the Western Ribbon Snake is one of the species in Texas with specific preying techniques. Striped Whipsnakes are a common sight in parts of Texas. The Diamondback Water Snake is quite defensive, just like the Blotched Water Snake, and is likely to strike out if approached. Cottonmouths can be dark brown, olive-brown, olive green or almost solid black. However, its venom is considerably more toxic than the venom of Rattlesnake. The snake is also venomous. Cottonmouth snakes are commonly seen around bodies of water, like ponds, lakes or creeks. The Rock Rattlesnake is also known as the Eastern Rock Rattlesnake. In some cases, a bite can lead to swelling. Common thorough the state, this species is known for mating in the spring. Adaptations allow these snakes to dive their heads underwater looking for fish. 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